God
God
1959 Quater 2
SABVA'r11 SCHOOttESSO
OIR 'WONDERFUL GOD
SENIOR DIVISION, No. SECOND. QUARTER, 1959 THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY “He who by faith receives the word is receiving the very life and character of God. Every seed brings forth fruit after its kind…. Receive into the soul by faith the incorruptible seed of the word, and it will bring forth a character and a life after the similitude of the character and the life of God.”—Christ’s Object Lessons, page 38. “Appreciation of the Bible grows with its study.”—/bid., p. 132. “God will make the most precious revelations to His hungering, thirsting people. They will find that Christ is a personal Saviour. As they feed upon His word, they find that it is spirit and life. The word destroys the natural, earthly nature, and imparts a new life in Christ jesus.”—The Desire of Ages, page 391. “The neglect of the word means starvation to the soul.”—Counsels on Sabbath School Work, page 44.
My Daily Lesson Study Pledge As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sab- bath school lesson each day of the week.
Name
LESSON TITLES FOR THE QUARTER 1. God's Satisfying Friendship 6. God's Unsearchable Wisdom 2. God's Transcendent and Mysterious 7. God's Universal Government
Nature 8. God's Immutable Law 3. God's Ceaseless Work as Creator 9. God's Sacred Name
and Sustainer Io. God's Omnipotence 4. God's Perfect Character H. God's Consuming Glory 5. God's Perfect Character—Con- 32. God's Holy Word
tinued 13. God's Wonderful Fatherhood
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly, No. 256, April-June, 1969. 20 cents a single copy, 76 cents a year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage. Published in the U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350 Villa Street, Mountain View, California. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain View, California. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send both old and new addresses. Copyright, 1959, by Pacific Press Publishing Association Printed in U.S.A. Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly OUR WONDERFUL GOD
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
“A knowledge of God is the foundation of issues connected with loyalty to God and all true education and of all true service. It His law. is the only real safeguard against tempta- “Those who endeavor to obey all the com- tion. It is this alone that can make us like mandments of God will be opposed and de- God in character. rided. They can stand only in God. In “This is the knowledge needed by all who order to endure the trial before them, they are working for the uplifting of their fellow ‘must understand the will of God as revealed men. Transformation of character, purity in His word; they can honor Him only as of life, efficiency in service, adherence to cor- they have a right conception of His charac- rect principles, all depend upon a right ter, government, and purposes, and act in knowledge of God. This knowledge is the accordance with them.”—The Great Con- essential preparation both for this life and troversy, page 593. (Italics supplied.) for the life to come.”—The Ministry of The Sabbath school lessons this quarter Healing, page 409. (Italics supplied.) are designed to help every member under- While a knowledge of God has always stand more perfectly the great God whom been needed by followers of truth, it is of we serve. This knowledge, if reverently re- special importance to members of the rem- ceived, will do much toward enabling each nant church, for they must meet the final Christian to remain steadfast to the end.
Lesson 1, for April 4, 1959
God's Satisfying Friendship
MEMORY VERSE: “Acquaint now thyself with Him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee.” Job 22:21. STUDY HELPS: “Prophets and Kings,” pages 311-321; “The Ministry of Healing,” pages 451-457; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of March 19.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11, 12; begin Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ reading from Study Helps.. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-7. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑
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Lesson Outline 6. The heavenly bodies declare Him. Ps. 19:1-3. Introduction , 7. The Father revealed through Christ. I. Importance of Knowing God John 14:8, 9; 8:19. 8. Christ revealed in Scriptures. John 1. Necessary for eternal life. John 17:3. 5:39. 2. The source of all spiritual blessings. 2 Peter 1:2, 3. - “ 3. Is true wisdom. Prov. 9:10. 4. Is greatest cause for satisfaction. I11. Conditions for Knowing God Jer. 9:23, 24. 9. Be still. Ps. 46:10.
- Avenues Through Which Men Become 10. Earnest desire. Ps. 42:1 ; 63:1; 84:2.
Acquainted With God 11. Praying, having forsaken sin. James
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God revealed through visible things. 4:8; Ps. 145:18. Rom. 1:19, 20. 12. Search with whole heart. Jer. 29:13.
THE LESSON Introduction soul in the image of God. It will impart to the whole being a spiritual power that is God created man in His own image, with divine."-The Ministry of Healing, page the capabilities necessary to develop a char- 425. acter like His. He also placed within man a desire to know God and have fellowship 2. How many spiritual blessings with Him. Without God, man is restless, are available through a knowledge of often seeking to satisfy his vague, little- God? Name two. 2 Peter 1:2, 3. understood craving for God's friendship by reaching out for worldly pleasures or by seeking the companionship of those who mind earthly things. NorE.-"Having received the faith of the Throughout the Bible God extends an in- gospel, the next work of the believer is to vitation to man to become acquainted with add to his character virtue, and thus cleanse Him. A partial knowledge of Him can be the heart and prepare the mind for the re- obtained in several ways, such as through ception of the knowledge of God. This the Inspired Word, through Christ, through knowledge is the foundation of all true edu- nature, and through personal experience. cation and of all true service. It is the only Through these avenues of revelation we may real 'safeguard against temptation; and it learn to love God and develop a satisfying is this alone that can make one like God in friendship with Him. Beyond what has been character. Through the knowledge of God revealed, however, we have been warned and of His Son Jesus Christ, are given to not to speculate. the believer 'all things that pertain unto life and godliness.' No good gift is withheld from him who sincerely desires to obtain Importance of Knowing God the righteousness of God."-The Acts of the
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- What priceless gift will come to Apostles, pages 530, 531. all who truly know God? John 17:3. 3. What does Solomon say is the source of true wisdom and under- standing? •Prov. 9:10. NOTE.-“The knowledge of God as re-, vealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have. It is the knowl- NOTE.-“ ‘The fear of the Lord is the be- edge that works transformation of character. ginning of wisdom; and the knowledge of This knowledge, received, will re-create the the Holy is understanding.’ Proverbs 9:10. (4 1 The great work of life is character building; and a knowledge of God is the foundation of all true education. . . . God has revealed Himself to us in His word and in the works of creation. Through the volume of inspira- tion and the book of nature, we are “to,ob.: tain a knowledge of God.”—Patriarchs as nd Prophets, page 596.
- What does God declare should be man’s greatest cause for joy and personal satisfaction? Jer. 9:23, 24.
NOTE.—”There is a great deal of talk con- cerning higher education, and many sup- pose that higher education consists wholly in an education in science and literature; but this is not all. The highest education includes the knowledge of the word of God, Master Artist. Wherever we turn, we may and is comprehended in the words, ‘That hear the voice of God, and see evidences of they might know Thee the only true God, His goodness: and Jesus Christ, whom Thou halt sent.’ “From the solemn roll of the deep-toned John 17:3. thunder and old’ ocean’s ceaseless roar, to “The highest class of education is that the glad songs that make the forests vocal which will give such knowledge and disci- with melody, nature’s ten thousand voices pline as will lead to the best development speak His praise: In earth and’sea and’ sky, of character, and will fit the soul for that with their marvelous tint and color, vary- life which measures with the life of God. ing in gorgeous contrast or blended in har- … The highest education is that which will mony, we behold His glory. The everlasting teach our children and youth the science of hills tell us of His power. The trees.that Christianity, which will give them an experi- wave their green banners in the sunlight, mental knowledge of God’s ways, and will and the flowers in their delicate beauty, impart to them the lessons that Christ gave point to their Creator…. All the brightness to His disciples, of the paternal character and beauty that adorn the earth and light of God.”—Counsels to Teachers, pages 45,
- up the heavens, speak of God.”—The Min- istry of Healing, pages 411, 412. Avenues Through Which Men, 6. What message do the heavenly Become Acquainted With God - bodies proclaim to mankind? Ps. 19:
- Why are men without excuse if 1-3., they do not know God? Rom..1:19, 20. NOTE.—”No: finite mind can fully’ com- prehend the, existence, the power, the wis- dom, or the works of the Infinite One. . . . NOTE.—”In the song of the bird, the sigh- The mightiest intellects of earth cannot ing of the trees, and the music of the sea, comprehend God. Men may be ever search- we still may hear His voice who • talked • ing, ever learning, and still there is an-in- with Adam in Eden in the cool of the finity beyond. Yet the works of creation day.”—The Desire of Ages, pages 281, 282.” testify of GO.d’s polker and greathesi.”— “Nature testifies that One infinite •in Patriarchs and Prophets, page• 116. power,- great in goodness, mercy, and love, created the earth, and filled it with life and •y 7. Tor what lack of distermient did gladness. Even in their blighted state, all Christ reprove the’ people otHis day? things reveal the handiwork of the great John 14:8, 9; 8:19. — ‘ [6 ] NoTE.—”All that man needs to know or of God.”—The Ministry of Healing, page can know of God has been revealed in the 58. life and character of His Son.”—Testi- monies, vol. 8, p. 286. 10. How earnestly must we desire to become acquainted with God if we
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What is one way by which we are to know Him intimately? Ps. 42: may become acquainted with Christ? 1; 63:1; 84:2. John 5:39.
11. On what conditions will God NorE.—"Jesus said of the Old Testament draw near to His people? James 4:8; Scriptures,—and how much more is it true Ps. 145:18. of the New,—`They are they which testify of Me,' the Redeemer, Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. John 5: - Yes, the whole Bible tells of Christ. Nom—Prayer is one important means by From the first record of creation—for ‘with- which we can draw nigh to God. “Although out Him was not anything made that was there may be a tainted, corrupted atmos- made’—to the closing promise, ‘Behold, I phere around us, we need not breathe its come quickly,’ we are reading of His works miasma, but may live in the pure air of and listening to His voice. John 1:3 ; Revela- heaven. We may close every door to im- tion 22:12. If you would become acquainted pure imaginings and unholy thoughts by with the Saviour, study the Holy Scrip- lifting the soul into the presence of God tures.”—Steps to Christ (1956 and pocket through sincere prayer. Those whose hearts eds.), page 88. are open to receive the support and bless- ing of God will walk in a holier atmosphere than that of earth and will have constant Conditions for Knowing God communion with heaven.”—Steps to Christ, page 99.
- What attitude or condition in man is favorable to learning of the 12. What does God promise to Eternal One? Ps. 46:10. those who search for Him with the whole heart? Jer. 29:13.
NOTE.-“All who are under the training of God need the quiet hour for communion Questions for Meditation with their own hearts, with nature, and with God. In them is to be revealed a life 1. If I feel restless and unhappy, what that is not in harmony with the world, its may be lacking in my life? customs, or its practices; and they need 2. Is it possible to develop a satisfying to have a personal experience in obtaining friendship with God without spending some a knowledge of the will of God. We must time each day in contemplating His good- individually hear Him speaking to the heart. ness and studying His word? When every other voice is hushed, and in 3. If I know God, how successful will I quietness we wait before Him, the silence be in enduring the trials that come to all of the soul makes more distinct the voice Christians?
PLEASE NOTE: The pagination of the 1956 edition of “Steps to Christ” is the same as the pocket edition. Where quotations are given from this book, this is the pagination used. Where the book is listed as a study help, the pagination in the old 1908 edition is also listed. “Love Unlimited,” the 1959 Book of the Year, cotitOins`“Steps to Christ” in the first half of the volume, with paging the same as in the T956 edition. E6] Lesson 2, for April 11, 1959
God's Transcendent and Mysterious Nature
MEMORY VERSE: “Whither shall I go from Thy Spirit? or whither shall I flee from Thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, Thou art,there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, Thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning,’and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall Thy hand lead me, and Thy right hand shall hold me.” Ps. 139:7-10. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 8, pp. 263-294; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in. “Review and Herald” of March 26. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12-14. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-5. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 6-8. ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 9-11. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 7. Physical features of God mentioned in Scripture. Gen. 3:9, 10; Deut. 33: Introduction 27; Ps. 34:15; Isa. 59:1 ; Rev. 22:4. 8. Christ as seen by Daniel and John. I. The Trinity Dan. 7:9; 10:5, 6; Rev. 1:12-17. 1. There is only one God. Mark 12:29, I11. God’s Omnipresence 32 ; 1 Cor. 8:4-6 ; Deut. 6:4. 9. God is on His throne in heaven. Ps. 2. God is three Persons. Gen. 1:1, 2, 26. 11:4; Isa. 6:1; Rev. 4:2. 3. Disciples are baptized in the name 10. He is everywhere present by His of the Trinity. Matt. 28:19. Spirit. Ps. 139:7-10. 4. Paul speaks of God, the Lord Jesus, 11. He dwells in human hearts. La. the Holy Ghost. 2 Cor. 13:14. 57:15. 5. Christ is one with the Father. John 10:30. IV. God’s Nature Illustrated
- The Person of God 12. He is likened to fire. Heb. 12:29.
13. Revealed as fire to Moses and chil-
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Man was made in God’s image. Gen. dren of Israel. Ex. 3:1-6; 13:21, 22. 1:27. 14. Compared to, the wind. John 3:7, 8.
THE LESSON Introduction intellect may tax itself until it is wearied out in conjectures regarding the nature of God, Much has been revealed concerning. God, but the effort will be fruitless. This prob- yet His true nature is a mystery to us. lem has not been given us to solve. No "The revelation of Himself that God has human mind- can comprehend God. None given in His word is for our study. This are to indulge in speculation regarding His we may seek to understand. But beyond nature. Here silence is eloquence. The Om- this we are not to penetrate. The highest niscient One is above discussion.... [ 73“We are as ignorant of God t as little by living faith are baptized, and these children ; but, as little children, we may love powers will co-operate with the obedient and obey Him.”—The Ministry of Healing, subjects of heaven in their efforts to live page 429. •the new life in Christ.”—Evangelism, page 615. The Trinity 4. How does Paul make ieference
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What fundamental concept of to the Trinity? 2 Cor. 13:14. God do the Scriptures present? Mark - - - 12:29, 32; 1 Cor. 8:4-6; Deut. 6:4.
NcrrE.—"The Father is all the fullness of NOTE.—"In striking contrast to the na- the Godhead' bodily, and is invisible to tions about them, who were polytheists, the mortal sight. The Son is all the fullness of Hebrews believed in one true God. This the Godhead manifested.... The Comforter profession of faith hag been the watchWord that Christ promised to send after He as- of the Hebrew race for more than 3,000 cended to heaven, is the Spirit in all the years (see Mark 12:2.9). The apostle Paul fullness of the Godhead, making manifest states the same truth as a tenet of Chris- the power of divine grace to all who receive tianity (1 Cor. 8:4-6; Eph. 4:4-6)."—The and believe on Christ as a personal Saviour." Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, —Evangelism, pages 614, 615. vol. 1, p. 974. 5. What did Jesus say of His rela- ' 2. What do we learn regarding the tionship to His Father and the unity Godhead from the record of the crea- existing between them? John 10:30. tion of the world? Gen. 1:1, 2, 26. NoTE.—"The unity that exists between NoTE.—"The Spirit of God moved. Christ and His disciples does not destroy `Spirit,' ruach. In, harmoriy with Scriptuial the personality of either. They are one in usage, the Spirit of God is the Holy Spirit, purpose, in mind, in character, but not in therdhiPerson of the Godhead." person. It is thus that God and Christ are "Let Us make man. . . : The plural 'Us' one."—The Ministry of Healing, page 422. was regarded by the early church theologians All three members of the Deity shared almost unanimously as indicative of the in laying the plan of salvation. "The God- Three Persons of the Godhead. The word head was stirred with pity for the race, `us' requires the presence of at least two and the Father, the Son, and the Holy persons counseling ,together. L The state- Spirit gave Themselves to the working out ments that man was to be made in 'Our' of the plan of redemption."—Counsels on image and was made in 'God's' image leads Health, page 222. - to the conclusion that those counseling must both be Persons of the same Godhead."— The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commen- The Person of God tary, vol. 1, pp. 209, 215. 6. What general pattern was used - In giving the great commission,, when God created man? Gen. 1:27. how did Jesus emphasize the trinity of the Godhead? Matt. 28:19. NoTE.–“Man was to bear God’s image, both in outward resemblance and in char- NoTE.—”There are three living persons of acter. % Christ alone is ‘the express image’ the heavenly trio; in the name of these three of the Father; but man was formed in the great powers—the Father, the Son, and likeness of God.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, the Holy Spirit—those who receive Christ page 45. f 8] Since man was made in God’s “image,” NOTE.—”The greatness of God is to us we may understand that God is a person. incomprehensible. ‘The Lord’s throne is in Throughout the Scriptures, He is described heaven’ (Psalm 11:4) ; yet by His Spirit He as having the attributes of the type of per- is everywhere present. He has an intimate sonality with which we are familiar. knowledge of, and a personal interest in, all the works of His hand.”—Education,
- What five physical aspects of God page 132. indicate that He is a person? Gen. 3: 9, 10; Deut. 33:27; Ps. 34:15; Isa. 59: 10. How do we know that God can 1; Rev. 22:4. be everywhere present by His Spirit? Ps. 139:7-10.
NorE.—”God is a Spirit; yet He is a per- sonal Being; for so He has revealed Him- NOTE.—”The Bible shows us God in His self.”—The Ministry of Healing, page 413. high and holy place, not in a state of inac- “I have often seen the lovely Jesus, that tivity, not in silence and solitude, but He is a person. I asked Him if His Father surrounded by ten thousand times ten thou- was a person ‘and had a form like Him- sand and thousands of thousands of holy self. Said Jesus, ‘I am in the express image beings, all waiting to do His will. Through of My Father’s person.’“—Early Writings, these messengers He is in active communi- page 77. cation with every part of His dominion. By The following interesting description of a His Spirit He is everywhere present. scene in heaven indicates the very real per- Through the agency of His Spirit and His sonality of both the Father and the Son: angels He ministers to the children of men.” “Before the foundations of the earth were —The Ministry of Healing, page 417. laid, the Father and the Son had united in a covenant to redeem man if he should be 11. With whom has God promised overcome by Satan. They had clasped Their to dwell? Isa. 57:15. hands in a solemn pledge that Christ should become the surety for the human race.”— The Desire of Ages, page 834. (Italics sup- plied.) NoTE.—”The proud heart strives to earn “The Holy Spirit is a person, for He salvation; but both our title to heaven and beareth witness with our spirits that we our fitness for it are found in the righteous- are the children of God. … The Holy Spirit ness of Christ. The Lord can do nothing has a personality, else He could not bear toward the recovery of man until, convinced witness to our spirits and with our spirits of his own weakness, and stripped of all that we are the children of God. He must self-sufficiency, he yields himself to the also be a divine person, else He could not control of God. Then he can receive the search out the secrets which lie hidden in gift that God is waiting to bestow. From the the mind of God.”—Evangelism, pages 616, soul that feels his need, nothing is with-
- held. He has unrestricted access to Him in whom all fullness dwells.”—The Desire
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How does the description of “the of Ages, page 300. Ancient of Days” given by the prophet Daniel compare with that of Christ God’s Nature Illustrated given by the apostle John in Revela- 12. To what familiar but powerful tion? Dan. 7:9; 10:5, 6; Rev. 1:12-17. element does Paul liken God? Heb. 12:29.
God’s Omnipresence NorE.—It should be recognized that it is
- Where is God’s throne located? dangerous to try to compare the Godhead Ps. 11:4; Isa. 6:1; Rev. 4:2. with earthly things. “God cannot be com- [9] NoTE.—”Like the wind, which is invisible, yet the effects of which are plainly seen and felt, is the Spirit of God in its work upon the human heart. That regenerating power, which no human eye can see, begets a new life in the soul; it creates a new being in the image of God.”—Steps to Christ (1956 ed.), page 57. “The wind is heard among the branches of the trees, rustling the leaves and flowers; yet it is invisible, and no man knows whence it comes or whither it goes. So with the work of the Holy Spirit upon the heart. It can no more be explained than can the movements of the wind. . . . By an agency as unseen as the wind, Christ is constantly working upon the heart.”—The Desire of FIRE RE PRESENTS ONE Ages, page 172. ASPECT OF GOD’S CHARACTER. tous-: Questions for Meditation pared with the things His hands have made. These are mere earthly things, suffering 1. With how much knowledge concern- under the curse of God because of the sins ing God’s nature should we be content? of man. The Father cannot be described by (Deut. 29:29.) the things of earth. The Father is all the 2. Since God is everywhere present, need fullness of the Godhead bodily, and is in- we ever feel lonely? visible to mortal sight.”—Evangelism, page 3. What spiritual benefits are missed by
- those who think of God merely as a force
- Through what experiences was instead of a person? this aspect of God’s nature revealed to 4. Am I a true worshiper? (John 4:23, Moses and to the children of Israel? 24.) Ex. 3:1-6; 13:21, 22. “As an infinite spirit being, God is not subject to the same limitations as finite material beings, and consequently is not so much concerned with visible places and
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To what force in nature did forms of worship as He is with the spirit Jesus liken the workings of the Holy in which men worship Him.”—The Seventh- Spirit, the Third Person of the God- day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 5, head? John 3:7, 8. p. 941.
Lesson 3, for April 18, 1959 God's Ceaseless Work as Creator and Sustainer MEMORY VERSE: "Thus saith God the Lord, He that created the heavens, and stretched them out; He that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; He that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein." "I am the Lord: that is My name: and My glory will I not give to another, neither My praise to graven images." Isa. 42:5, 8. STUDY HELPS: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 409-426; "The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; Lesson Help in "Review and Her- ald" of April 2. [ 10 ]DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 6. He cares for mankind. Matt. 6: 25-34. Introduction 7. He fed Elijah miraculously. 1 Kings 17:8, 9, 14-16. I. God as the Creator 1. The entire Godhead shared in crea- I11. God as Provider of Spiritual Neces- tion. Ex. 20:11; Job 33:4 ; John 1: 1-3; Col. 1:13, 15, 16; Heb. 1:2. sities 2. The method of creation. Ps. 33:6, 9; 8. He supplied Israel’s spiritual needs Heb. 11:3. in the wilderness. 1 Cor. 10:3, 4. 3. Creation distinguishes the true God 9. He will give all needed blessings to from the false. 1 Chron. 16:26; Isa. us. Phil. 4:19; Rom. 8:32. 40:18, 25, 26; Rev. 4:11. 10. The Holy Spirit aids in spiritual
- God as Provider of Temporal Neces- ministry to man. John 16:12-14.
sities 11. God uses men to supply spiritual
needs of others. Acts 10:1-6, 9-20,
- God supplies every need. Acts 17: 28. 24, 25, 28. 12. God satisfied the needs of the Ethi-
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He waters the earth. Job 38:25-28; opian. Acts 8:26-35. Ps. 147:7, 8; Amos 5:7, 8. 13. God cares for us. 1 Peter 5:7.
THE LESSON Introduction God as the Creator It is important that we recognize God not 1. Aside from the Genesis record, only as the One who made us, but also as the how do we know that the entire God- Being who is continually engaged in up- holding His creation. We must understand head took part in the work of crea- that He has not left the earth to run itself, tion? Ex. 20:11; Job 33:4; John 1:1-3; but that He has a personal interest in that Col. 1:13, 15, 16; Heb. 1:2. which He has made. "Thousands become infidels because their finite minds cannot comprehend the mys- teries of God. They cannot explain the won- Non.—"The Sovereign of the universe derful exhibition of divine power in His was not alone in His work of beneficence. providences, therefore they reject the evi- He had an associate,—a co-worker who dences of such power, attributing them to could appreciate His purposes, and could natural agencies which they can compre- share His joy in giving happiness to created hend still less. The only key to the mysteries beings. 'In the beginning was the Word, and that surround us is to acknowledge in them the Word was with God, and the Word all the presence and power of God. Men was God. The same was in the beginning need to recognize God as the Creator of the with God.' John 1:1, 2. Christ, the Word, universe, One who commands and executes the Only Begotten of God, was one with all things. They need a broader view of the eternal Father,—one in nature, in char- His character, and of the mystery of His acter, in purpose,—the only being that agencies."—The Desire of Ages, page 606. could enter into all the counsels and pur-poses of God. . . . The Father wrought by for temporal needs and even for life His Son in the creation of all heavenly itself? Acts 17:24, 25, 28, beings.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 34. “The Spirit of God has the role of the divine Agent of God in all creative acts, whether of the earth, of nature, of the NoTE.—”It is not as the result of a church, of the new life, or of the new man. mechanism, which, once set in motion, con- . This divine Agent has ever been present tinues its work, that the pulse beats and to assist in the work of creation and re- breath follows breath. In God we live and demption.”—The Seventh-day Adventist move and have our being. The beating Bible Commentary, vol. 1, p. 209. heart, the throbbing pulse, every nerve and muscle in the living organism, is kept in
- How did God create the uni- order and activity by the power of an ever- verse? Ps. 33:6, 9; Heb. 11:3. present God.”—The Ministry of Healing, page 417. 5. What evidence do we have in NOTE.—”In the creation of the earth, God nature of God’s care for the earth? was not indebted to pre-existing matter. Job 38:25-28; Ps. 147:7, 8; Amos 5: `He spake, and it was; . . . He commanded, and it stood fast’ Psalm 33:9. All things, 7, 8. material or spiritual, stood up before the Lord Jehovah at His voice and were created for His own purpose. The heavens and all the host of them, the earth and all things NorE.—”Our Father in heaven is the therein, came into existence by the breath source of life, of wisdom, and of joy. Look of His mouth.”—The Ministry of Healing, at the wonderful and beautiful things of pages 414, 415. nature. Think of their marvelous adapta- tion to the needs and happiness, not only
- What distinguishes the true God of man, but of all living creatures. The sun- from all other gods? 1 Chron. 16:26; shine and the rain, that gladden and re- Isa. 40:18, 25, 26. Compare Rev. 4: fresh the earth, the hills and seas and plains, all speak to us of the Creator’s love. It is
- God who supplies the daily needs of all His creatures.”—Steps to Christ (1956 ed.), page 9. NoTE.—”The duty to worship God is based upon the fact that He is the Creator 6. What lesson should man learn and that to Him all other beings owe their from the way God provides for the existence. And wherever, in the Bible, His vegetable and animal creation? Matt. claim to reverence and worship, above the 6:25-34. gods of the heathen, is presented, there is cited the evidence of His creative power. `All the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord made the heavens.’ Psalm 96:5. NorE.—”The great Provider for man and . And the holy beings who worship God beast opens His hand and supplies all His in heaven state, as the reason why their creatures. The birds of the air are not be- homage is due to Him: ‘Thou art worthy, neath His notice. He does not drop the food 0 Lord, to receive glory and honor and into their bills, but He makes provision for power: for Thou hast created all things’ their needs. They must gather the grains He Revelation 4:11.”—The Great Controversy, has scattered for them. They must prepare pages 436, 437. the material for their little nests. They must feed their young. They go forth singing to God as Provider of Temporal their labor, for ‘your heavenly Father feed- Necessities eth them.’ And ‘are ye not much better than they?’ Are not you, as intelligent,
-
What did the apostle Paul de- spiritual worshipers, of more value than the dare about our dependence upon God birds of the air? Will not the Author of our [12 1 who in the material world provided that every desire implanted should be met. It was He who created the human soul, with its capacity for knowing and for loving. And He is not in Himself such as to leave the demands of the soul unsatisfied.”— Education, page 133. 10. What is the Holy Spirit’s part in providing us with spiritual suste- nance? John 16:12-14.
NorE.—"Christ has promised the gift of the Holy Spirit to His church, and the promise belongs to us as much as to the first BY NATURAL MEANS OR BY MIRACLES, disciples. But like every other promise, it BOO SUPPLIES OUR NEEDS. is given on conditions. There are many who believe and profess to claim the Lord's promise; they talk about Christ and about being, the Preserver of our life, the One who the Holy Spirit, yet receive no benefit. They formed us in His own divine image, provide do not surrender the soul to be guided and for our necessities if we but trust in Him?" controlled by the divine agencies. We can- Steps to Christ, page 123. not use the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is to use us. Through the Spirit God works in - During a period of drought in His people ‘to will and to do of His good Israel, in what unusual way did the pleasure.’ Phil. 2:13. . . . This promised Lord provide for Elijah? 1 Kings 17: blessing, claimed by faith, brings all other 8, 9, 14-16. blessings in its train. It is given accord- ing to the riches of the grace of Christ, and He is ready to supply every soul accord- ing to the capacity to receive.”—The De- NOTE.—When the situation demands it sire of Ages, page 672. and when His wisdom determines it best, God will provide for His people through 11. Through what means did God miraculous means. work to satisfy Cornelius’s desire for truth? Acts 10:1-6, 9-20, 28. God as Provider of Spiritual Necessities
-
In addition to supplying their 12. In what way did God answer physical necessities, what did God the Ethiopian’s desire for light? Acts provide for the children of Israel in 8:26-35. the wilderness? 1 Cor. 10:3, 4.
NOTE.—"We are to be consecrated chan- - How completely will God satisfy nels, through which the heavenly life is to our physical and spiritual needs? Phil. flow to others. The Holy Spirit is to ani- 4:19; Rom. 8:32. mate and pervade the whole church, puri- fying and cementing hearts.”—Testimonies, vol. 9, p. 20.
NOTE.—”It was the Maker of all things 13. Why can we safely trust God who ordained the wonderful adaptation of for every temporal and spiritual need? means to end, of supply to need, It was He 1 Peter 5:7. [ 13 ] Questions for Meditation 3. Which is most nearly correct? a.. God will make provision for all our
- What difference does it make in our needs without any effort on our part. life when we think of God as One who is b. God expects us to do all we can to continually engaged in supplying the needs feed our physical and spiritual na- of His creatures rather than as an absentee tures, and when we do He will see landlord? that we do not lack. c. God has given us the tools to work
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What does worry indicate about our with and He expects us to provide knowledge of God? for ourselves without His help.
Lesson 4, for April 25, 1959 God's Perfect Character
MEMORY VERSE: “And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in good- ness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and trans- gression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty.” Ex. 34:6, 7. STUDY HELPS: “Steps to Christ,” pages 9-15 (1956 and pocket eds.); pages 9-18 (1908 ed.); “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of April 9.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: Survey Wednesday: Questions 12, 13; read entire lesson. from Study Helps. Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Thursday: Read further from Study Monday: Questions 5-8. Helps. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 9-11. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 8. His mercy revealed through forgive- ness. Micah 7:18, 19. Introduction 9. Man’s part in obtaining mercy. Ex. 20:6; Isa. 55:7. I. God Is Love 1. His nature is love. 1 John 4:8, 16. I11. The Long-Suffering of God 2. His lqve is everlasting. Jer. 31:3. 3. His love is greater than human love. 10. Mercy and forgiveness of God. Ex. Isa. 49:15, 16. 34:6; Ps. 86:15. 4. Demonstrated in Christ. John 3:16; 11. Christ’s second coming delayed be- Rom. 5:8. cause He. is long-suffering. 2 Peter 5. Nothing can separate us from His 3:9, 15. love. Rom. 8:38, 39.
-
God’s Mercy and Forgiveness IV. God’s Unchangeableness
- He is plenteous in mercy. Ps. 86:5; 12. His nature is unchanging. Mal. 3:6; 103:8. James 1:17.
- His mercy endures forever. 1 Chron. 13. Inspires confidence in Him. Heb. 7: 16:34; Ps. 103:17; 138:8. 24, 25; 13:8; 4:16. 14 THE LESSON Introduction 4. In what way has God demon- The character of God is one of the themes strated His love for us? John 3:16; that we as Christians are urged to study. Rom. 5:8. “The character of God, His love manifested in giving His Son to die for the world, and the beauty of holiness, are exalted themes for contemplation. These will strengthen the intellect, and bring man into close com- NoTE.—”Nothing less than the infinite munion with the Infinite One.”—Funda- sacrifice made by Christ in behalf of fallen mentals of Christian Education, page 49. man could express the Father’s love to lost humanity.” God Is Love “But this great sacrifice was not made in
- With what supreme characteris- order to create in the Father’s heart a love tic is God identified? 1 John 4:8, 16. for man, not to make Him willing to save. No, no ! . . The Father loves us, not be- cause of the great propitiation, but He pro- vided the propitiation because He loves us. NOTE.-“ ‘God is love.’ His nature, His Christ was the medium through which He law, is love. It ever has been ; it ever will could pour out His infinite love upon a be. . . . Every manifestation of creative fallen world. ‘God was in Christ, reconciling power is an expression of infinite love. . . . the world unto Himself.’ 2 Corinthians 5: The history of the great conflict between 19. God suffered with His Son. In the good and evil, from the time it first began agony of Gethsemane, the death of Calvary, in heaven to the final overthrow of rebellion the heart of Infinite Love paid the price and the total eradication of sin, is also a of our redemption.”—Steps to Christ, demonstration of God’s unchanging love.” pages 14, 13. —Patriarchs and Prophets, page 33. 5. How did Paul describe the su-
- What quality of God’s love premacy of God’s love as manifested should give us great courage? Jer. through Christ? Rom. 8:38, 39. 31:3.
NorE.—”While the sinner is yet far from NOTE.-“All the paternal love which has the Father’s house, wasting his substance in come down from generation to generation a strange country, the Father’s heart is through the channel of human hearts, all yearning over him; and every longing the springs of tenderness which have opened awakened in the soul to return to God is in the souls of men, are but as a tiny rill but the tender pleading of His Spirit, woo- to the boundless ocean when compared with ing, entreating, drawing the wanderer to the infinite, exhaustless love of God. Tongue his Father’s heart of love.”—Steps to Christ cannot utter it; pen cannot portray it. You (1956 ed.), page 54. may meditate upon it every day of your life; you may search the Scriptures diligently
- By what illustration does God in order to understand it; you may summon help us to understand His love for every power and capability that God has mankind? Isa. 49:15, 16. given you, in the endeavor to comprehend the love and compassion of the heavenly Father; and yet there is an infinity beyond. You may study that love for ages; yet you NoTE.—”Parents love their children, but can never fully comprehend the length and the love of God is larger, broader, deeper the breadth, the depth and the height, of the than human love can possibly be. It is im- love of God in giving His Son to die for measurable.”—Christ’s Object Lessons the world. Eternity itself can never fully (1941 ed.), page 142. reveal it.”—Testimonies, vol. 5, p. 740. [15] God’s Mercy and Forgiveness
-
In what wonderful characteristic is God said to be “plenteous”? Ps. 86:5; 103:8.
-
Of what duration is God’s mercy? 1 Chron. 16:34; Ps. 103:17; 138:8.
-
What is one way in which God’s mercy is revealed toward us? Micah 7:18, 19.
ary time, His Spirit is entreating men to - On what condition will God accept the gift of life. . . . It is Satan’s show mercy toward sinners and for- special device to lead man into sin, and give their transgressions? Ex. 20:6; then leave him there, helpless and hopeless, Isa. 55:7. fearing to seek for pardon. But God invites, `Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me ; and he shall make peace with Me.’ Isa. 27:5. In Christ every NOTE .—”Let none deceive themselves with provision has been made, every encourage- the thought that God, in His great love and ment offered.”—Prophets and Kings, pages mercy, will yet save even the rejecters of 325, 326. His grace. The exceeding sinfulness of sin can be estimated only in the light of 11. In what way is God’s long-suf- the cross.”—Steps to Christ, page 31. fering related to the delay in Christ’s “Through Jesus, God’s mercy was mani- second coming? 2 Peter 3:9, 15. fested to men; but mercy does not set aside justice…. “By His life and His death, Christ proved that God’s justice did not destroy His mercy, but that sin could be forgiven, and that the law is righteous, and can be perfectly obeyed.” “The rejecters of His mercy reap NOTE.—”The forbearance of God has been that which they have sown.”—The Desire very great,—so great that when we con- of Ages, pages 762, 764. sider the continuous insult to His holy commandments, we marvel. The Omnipo- tent One has been exerting a restraining The Long-Suffering of God power over His own attributes. But He will certainly arise to punish the wicked,
- What trait of God’s character is who so boldly defy the just claims of the closely associated with His mercy and Decalogue. forgiveness? Ex. 34:6; Ps. 86:15. “God allows men a period of probation; but there is a point beyond which divine patience is exhausted, and the judgments of God are sure to follow.” “The end of God’s NOTE.—”The God whom we serve is long- forbearance with those who persist in dis- suffering; ‘His compassions fail not.’ Lam. obedience, is approaching rapidly.”—Proph- 3:22. Throughout the period of probation- ets and Kings, page 276. [1e] God’s Unchangeableness NoTE.—”By His spotless life, His obedi- ence, His death on the cross of Calvary,
- Why can we be confident that Christ interceded for the lost race. And the Father is still a God of love— now, not as a mere petitioner does the Cap- merciful and ready to forgive? Mal. tain of our salvation intercede for us, but 3:6; James 1:17. as a Conqueror claiming His victory. His offering is complete, and as our Intercessor He executes His self-appointed work, hold- ing before God the censer containing His NOTE.—”The rainbow about the throne is own spotless merits and the prayers, con- an assurance that God is true; that in Him fessions, and thanksgiving of His people. is no variableness, neither shadow of turn- Perfumed with the fragrance of His right- ing. We have sinned against Him and are eousness, these ascend to God as a sweet undeserving of His favor; yet He Himself savor. The offering is wholly acceptable, has put into our lips that most wonderful and pardon covers all transgression.”— of pleas: ‘Do not abhor us, for Thy name’s Christ’s Object Lessons (1941 ed.), page 156. sake, do not disgrace the throne of Thy glory: remember, break not Thy covenant with us.’ Jeremiah 14:21. He has pledged Questions for Meditation Himself to give heed to our cry when we come to Him confessing our unworthiness 1. Why is it wrong for me as a Christian and sin. The honor of His throne is staked to be unkind and selfish? What command- for the fulfillment of His word to us.”— ment am I breaking when I thus misrepre- Testimonies, vol. 8, p. 23. sent God’s character? 2. Why is God’s mercy of infinite im-
-
How does the unchangeable portance to us? nature of God serve as an anchor to 3. What assurance does the knowledge of our spiritual hope? Heb. 7:24, 25; God’s unchangeableness give me in this 13:8; 4:16. world of change and transition?
Lesson 5, for May 2, 1959 God's Perfect Character—Continued
MEMORY VERSE: “And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, 0 Lord, and glorify Thy name? for Thou only art holy.” Rev. 15:3, 4. STUDY HELPS: “Early Writings,” pages 69-71; “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 737-746; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of April 16.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-7. ❑ Friday: Review entire lesson. ❑ Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑
[ 17 ]
Lesson Outline 6. Abraham’s confidence in God’s jus- tice. Gen. 18:25. Introduction 7. God’s ways compared with man’s. Ezek. 18:29. I. God Is Holy 8. Moses sings of God’s justice. Deut. 32:4. 1. God’s holiness should inspire wor- 9. God deals impartially with men. 2 ship. Ps. 99:5, 9. Chron. 19:7; 1 Peter 1:17. 2. Isaiah humbled by vision of God. 10. Christ declared to be the Just One. Isa. 6:1-7. Acts 3:14. 3. Man urged to emulate God’s char- acter. Lev. 19:2 ; Heb. 12:10, 14. I11. God Is Faithful 4. Angels sing of God’s holiness. Rev. 4:8; 15:4, first part. 11. God’s faithfulness builds confidence in His word. Deut. 7:9; Heb. 10:23.
- God Is Just 12. He will faithfully save all who come
to Him. 1 Cor. 1:9; 1 Thess. 5:24.
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The redeemed acknowledge God’s 13. Faithfulness to be seen in His fol- justice. Rev. 15:3. lowers. 1 Cor. 4:2 ; Rev. 2:10.
THE LESSON Introduction would reform in life and character."-Testi- monies to Ministers, page 145. No amount of study of the character of God can ever exhaust the subject. "The 2. When Isaiah was given a vision years of eternity, as they roll, will bring of the holiness of God, what effect did richer and still more glorious revelations of it have on him? What was done to God and of Christ. As knowledge is pro- his sins? Isa. 6:1-7. gressive, so will love, reverence, and happi- ness increase. The more men learn of God, the greater will be their admiration of His character. As Jesus opens before them the NOTE.-"As Isaiah beheld this revelation riches of redemption and the amazing of the glory and majesty of his Lord, he achievements in the great controversy with was overwhelmed with a sense of the purity Satan, the hearts of the ransomed thrill with and holiness of God. How sharp the con- more fervent devotion, and with more trast between the matchless perfection of rapturous joy they sweep the harps of gold; his Creator, and the sinful course of those and ten thousand times ten thousand and who, with himself, had long been numbered thousands of thousands of voices unite to among the chosen people of Israel and swell the mighty chorus of praise."-The Judah l"-Prophets and Kings, page 307. Great Controversy, page 678. 3. What standard has God set for God Is Holy us to reach? Lev. 19:2; Heb. 12:10, 14.
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- To what feature of God’s charac- ter did David call attention as a reason why men should worship Him? Ps. NoTE.-“Holiness is not rapture: it is an 99:5, 9. entire surrender of the will to God; it is living by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God; it is doing the will of our heavenly Father; it is trusting God in NoTE.-“Holiness is the foundation of trial, in darkness as well as in the light; it God’s throne; sin is the opposite of holi- is walking by faith and not by sight; it is ness; sin crucified the Son of God. If men relying on God with unquestioning confi- could see how hateful sin is, they would not dence, and resting in His love.”-The Acts tolerate it, nor educate themselves in it. They of the Apostles, page 51. [ 18 ] 4. What is the theme of the anthem of praise offered by heavenly beings? Rev. 4:8; 15:4, first part.
NOTE.—”Cleanse yourselves from all filth- iness of the flesh and spirit. The crown- ing glory of Christ’s attributes is His holiness. The angels bow before Him in ado- ration, exclaiming, ‘Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty.’ Revelation 4:8. He is de- clared to be glorious in His holiness. Study the character of God. By beholding Christ, by seeking Him in faith and prayer, you may become like Him.”—Counsels to Teachers, page 402.
God Is Just NOTE.—"God alone is the Judge of al
men. Addressing Him thus, Abraham gives 5. When the redeemed sing the evidence that he knew the One before whom song of Moses and the Lamb, what will he stood to be the Supreme Being. Now he they say concerning God's dealings appealed, not to God's grace and pardon, with mankind? Rev. 15:3. but to His absolute judicial equity. This
principle had been demonstrated by God
in His extension of probation for the Amor-
ites another 400 years. Their iniquity was
`not yet full' (ch. 15:16). When God con-
sented to spare Sodom if only ten righteous NoTE.—"Every question of truth and men could be found within its gates, He error in the long-standing controversy has followed the same principle."—The Seventh- now been made plain. The results of re- day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 1, bellion, the fruits of setting aside the divine p. 330. statutes, have been laid open to the view of all created intelligences. The working 7. How does God compare His out of Satan's rule in contrast with the ways with those of men? Ezek. 18:29. government of God has been presented to the whole universe. Satan's own works have condemned him. God's wisdom, His justice, and His goodness stand fully vin- dicated. It is seen that all His dealings in 8. In what words did Moses pro- the great controversy have been conducted claim the justice of God? Deut. 32:4. with respect to the eternal good of His people and the good of all the worlds that He has created. . . . With all the facts of the great controversy in view, the whole universe, both loyal and rebellious, with one NOTE.—"In all the dealings of God with accord declare: 'Just and true are Thy ways, His people, there is, mingled with His love Thou King of saints.' "—The Great Con- and mercy, the most striking evidence of troversy, pages 670, 671. His strict and impartial justice. This is
exemplified in the history of the Hebrew
people. God had bestowed great blessings 6. When God revealed to Abraham upon Israel. . . . And yet what swift and His plan to destroy Sodom, of what severe retribution was visited upon them was the patriarch convinced concern- for their transgressions !"—Patriarchs and ing God's justice? Gen. 18:25. Prophets, page 469.
[ 19
9. How is the impartiality and fair- end.” Some will give up the struggle to ness of God manifested? 2 Chron. 19: perfect the type of character necessary. 7; 1 Peter 1:17. Looking at their own weakness, they become discouraged and turn back into the world. Those who recognize the faithfulness of God, however, and who put their dependence in NoTE.—”No distinction on account of His mighty power, will at last be numbered nationality, race, or caste, is recognized by among the overcomers. This can be the ex- God. He is the Maker of all mankind. All perience of all whb truly believe that “faith- men are of one family by creation, and all ful is He that calleth you, who also will are one through redemption. Christ came do it.” to demolish every wall of partition, to throw open every compartment of the temple 13. What is expected in the lives courts, that every soul may have free access of Christ’s followers? To what ex- to God. His love is so broad, so deep, so tent? 1 Cor. 4:2; Rev. 2:10. full, that it penetrates everywhere. It lifts out of Satan’s influence those who have been deluded by his deceptions, and places them within reach of the throne of God, Nora.—”The present is a season of solemn the throne encircled by the rainbow of privilege and sacred trust to the servants of promise. In Christ there is neither Jew nor God. If these trusts are faithfully kept, Greek, bond nor free.”—Prophets and Kings, great will be the reward of the faithful pages 369, 370. servant when the Master shall say: ‘Give an account of thy stewardship.’ The ear-
- Besides holiness, what other nest toil, the unselfish work, the patient, divine trait of character was mani- persevering effort, will be rewarded abun- fested in the life of Christ? Acts 3:14. dantly; Jesus will say: Henceforth I call you not servants, but friends, guests. The approval of the Master is not given be- cause of the greatness of the work per- God Is Faithful formed, because many things have been gained, but because of the fidelity in even
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What trait of God’s character a few things. It is not the great results we enables us to depend on the promises attain, but the motives from which we act, contained in His word? Deut. 7:9; that weigh with God. He prizes goodness Heb. 10:23. and faithfulness more than the greatness of the work accomplished.”—Testimonies, vol. 2, pp. 510, 511.
- Why is God’s faithfulness im- Questions for Meditation portant to those who have accepted 1. If I truly know Christ, why will I not the gospel invitation? 1 Cor. 1:9; claim to be perfect and holy? 1 Thess. 5:24. 2. True or false? The rich and the poor will be treated alike by God in the judgment. 3. In what way is faithfulness important in the following relations? Nora.—There are many who accept God’s a. My marriage. offer to become citizens in His kingdom. b. My agreements with others. Not all, however, will “endure unto the c. My religious life.
Sabbath school lessons in Braille are supplied free to the blind upon
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Lesson 6, for May 9, 1959
God's Unsearchable Wisdom MEMORY VERSE: "Host thou not known? host thou not heard, that the everlast-
ing God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither
is weary? there is no searching of His understanding." Isa. 40:28. STUDY HELPS: "Prophets and Kings," pages 491-502, 551-558; "Fundamentals of
Christian Education," pages 181-185, 444-453; "The Seventh-day Adventist
Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of
April 23.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. 0 Wednesday: Questions 10-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. 0 Thursday: Read from Study Helps. 0 Monday: Questions 4-6. 0 Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 7-9. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 7. He knows the secrets of the atmos- phere. Job 37:14-24. Introduction 8. He gives guidance to the animal creation. Job 39:26-29. I. God’s Wisdom Compared With Man’s 1. God’s thoughts infinitely higher. Isa. I11. God’s Knowledge of His Creatures 55:8, 9. 2. Paul’s response to God’s wisdom. 9. He knows the needs of all His Rom. 11:33. creatures. Heb. 4:13. 3. Man cannot search out God’s wis- 10. He supplies the needs of all His dom. Ps. 147:5; Isa. 40:28. creatures. Ps. 104:21-28; Matt. 6:26.
- God Knows All Things
11. He knows all about our needs. Matt.
10:29-31; Rom. 8:28.
- He sees the future. Isa. 42:8, 9; 46: 9, 10. IV. God’s Wisdom Available
- He knows every secret. Ps. 44:21; Dan. 2:47. 12. He will impart wisdom to us. James
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He knows the personal life of each 1:5. individual. 1 Chron. 28:9; Ps. 139: 13. He will direct our lives. Prov. 3: 1-6, 14-16. 5, 6.
THE LESSON Introduction This provides strong evidence to the de- vout person that there is a Master Intelli- The frontiers of knowledge are continually gence back of the universe. It indicates that being pressed back. Man is moving from there must be a God, who is the source of all one discovery to another in such fields as wisdom and knowledge, a God whose in- medicine, mathematics, astronomy, archae- tellectual might is infinite. This is the pic- ology, chemistry, and electronics. The secrets ture that the Bible presents concerning the of the atom have been unlocked, and the true God. Before this inscrutable mani- end of invention and research is not yet in festation of knowledge and wisdom, the de- sight. vout man bows in awe. 21God’s Wisdom Compared With the range of finite vision, if they could Man’s catch a glimpse of the Eternal, every mouth would be stopped in its boasting. Men
- What does God say of His living in this little atom of a world are thoughts as compared with man’s? finite; God has unnumbered worlds that Isa. 55:8, 9. are obedient to His laws and are conducted with reference to His glory. When men have gone as far in scientific research as their limited powers will permit, there is still an NOTE.—”No finite mind can fully compre- infinity beyond what they can apprehend.” hend the existence, the power, the wisdom, —Counsels to Teachers, page 66. or the works of the Infinite One. Says the sacred writer: `Canst thou by searching God Knows All Things find out God? canst thou find out the Al- 4. What is one of the evidences of mighty unto perfection? It is as high as heaven; what canst thou do? deeper than God’s wisdom? Isa. 42:8, 9; 46:9, 10. hell; what canst thou know? The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader than the sea.’ Job 11:7-9. The mightiest intellects of earth cannot comprehend God. NOTE.—Only God is able to see the future. Men may be ever searching, ever learning, What will take place during the coming and still there is an infinity beyond.”— years is as well known to Him as the hap- Patriarchs and Prophets, page 116. (Italics penings of yesterday. Then “let us trust supplied.) Him. Worry is blind and cannot discern the future. But Jesus sees the end from
- As Paul contemplated God’s the beginning, and in every difficulty He has dealings with men, what exclamation His way prepared to bring relief.”—Testi- did he make concerning God’s wis- monies, vol. 7, p. 298. dom? Rom. 11:33. 5. What is said concerning God’s knowledge of secrets? Ps. 44:21; Dan. 2:27, 28. NorE.—”If it were possible for created beings to attain to a full understanding of God and His works, then, having reached this point, there would be for them no 6. How much does God know about further discovery of truth, no growth in each person and his activities? 1 knowledge, no further development of mind Chron. 28:9; Ps. 139:1-6, 14-16. or heart. God would no longer be supreme; and man, having reached the limit of knowledge and attainment, would cease to advance. Let us thank God that it is not so. NoTE.—”If we were to cherish an habitual God is infinite; in Him are ‘all the treasures impression that God sees and hears all that of wisdom and knowledge.’ Colossians 2:3. we do and say, and keeps a faithful record And to all eternity men may be ever search- of our words and actions, and that we must ing, ever learning, and yet never exhaust the meet it all, we would fear to sin. Let the treasures of His wisdom, His goodness, and young ever remember that wherever they His power.”—Steps to Christ (1956 ed.), are, and whatever they do, they are in the page 109. presence of God. No part of our conduct escapes observation. We cannot hide our
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What is man unable to search ways from the Most High. Human laws, out? Ps. 147:5; Isa. 40:28. though sometimes severe, are often trans- gressed without detection, and hence with impunity. But not so with the law of God. The deepest midnight is no cover for the NorE.—”God is the source of all wisdom. guilty one. He may, think himself alone; He is infinitely wise and just and good. . . . but to every deed there is an unseen wit- “If men could see for a moment beyond ness. The very motives of his heart are [ 22 ] 11. Why should we trust God to care for us? Matt. 10:29-31; Rom. 8: 28.
NOTE.—"Though their present needs are supplied, many are unwilling to trust God for the future, and they are in constant anx- iety lest poverty shall come upon them, and their children shall be left to suffer. Some are always anticipating evil, or magnifying the difficulties that really exist, so that their eyes are blinded to the many blessings which demand their gratitude. The obstacles they encounter, instead of leading them to seek help from God, the only source of strength, GOD KNOWS THE SECRETS OF HIS UNIVERSE. separate them from Him, because they ¢9,9-G awaken unrest and repining. "Do we well to be thus unbelieving? Why should we be ungrateful and distrustful? open to divine inspection. Every act, every Jesus is our friend; alI heaven is interested word, every thought, is as distinctly marked in our welfare."—Patriarchs and Prophets, as though there were only one person in the pages 293, 294. whole world, and the attention of heaven were centered upon him."—Patriarchs and Prophets, pages 217, 218. God's Wisdom Available 12. When we need wisdom, to what -
With what phenomena of nature source are we invited to go? James is God familiar? Job 37:14-24. 1:5.
- What is one way in which the NOTE.—”The strength of those who love wisdom of God is manifested by the and serve God will be renewed day by day. creatures of His hand? Job 39:26-29. The understanding of the Infinite is placed at their service, that in carrying out His purposes they may not err. . . . God is able and willing to bestow upon His servants all NorE.—In Job, chapters 37 to 39, many the strength they need and to give them the examples are given of God’s wisdom as re- wisdom that their varied necessities demand. vealed in nature, of which those relating to He will more than fulfill the highest ex- the hawk and the eagle are typical. Every pectations of those who put their trust in phase of nature is fully understood by God, Him.”—The Acts of the Apostles, page 242. for it is by His wisdom that He has created all things, including the laws that govern 13. On what condition has God nature. promised to direct our lives? Prov. 3:5, 6. God’s Knowledge of His Creatures
- How complete is God’s knowl- edge of the universe? Heb. 4:13. NorE.—”Entire trust in God is the only • logical position for Christians to take. God has all knowledge and all power, and fore- sees and prepares against all the troubles
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What does God provide for His that come upon man as sudden emergencies. creatures? Ps. 104:21-28; Matt. 6:26. For anyone to rely on his own understand- [237 ing under such circumstances is foolish in- path of His servant, when His servant deed. It is also folly to alternate between acknowledges Him in every phase of life’s trust in self and trust in God. many activities.”—The Seventh-day Ad- “To place little confidence in one’s own ventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, pp. 955, understanding does not mean that a man 956. must lay aside intelligence and give up the Questions for Meditation power of choice. Intelligence is needed to determine from the word of God and from 1. Since God could see the future and God’s guiding providences what is the divine knew that man would sin, why, do you will. A will strengthened and cleansed by think, did He create man? God is needed if one is to follow a true 2. What viewpoint must one maintain if course through to the end. education and a continual search for knowl- “He shall direct. Or, ‘it is He who will edge are to be a blessing instead of a curse? direct.’ The Hebrew emphasizes that God 3. Why is God’s leading so much more Himself will make straight and plain the remarkable in some lives than in others?
Lesson 7, for May 16, 1959 God's Universal Government
MEMORY VERSE: “Thine, 0 Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom, 0 Lord, and Thou art exalted as head above all.” 1 Chron. 29:11. STUDY HELPS: “Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 33-43; “Prophets and Kings,” pages 514-521; “Testimonies,” vol. 5, pp. 749-754; “The Seventh-day Ad- ventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of April 30. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12-14. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-8. ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 9-11. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 5. Earthly temples cannot contain God. 1 Kings 8:27; Acts 17:24. Introduction 6. God also dwells with men. Isa. 57:15. I. God Is a King 11. The Kingdom of God 1. Worship due Him as King. Ps. 29: 2, 10; 47:2. 7. His kingdom is founded on right- 2. He will reign forever. Ex. 15:18; eousness and judgment. Ps. 97:2, Ps. 10:16. margin; Heb. 1:8. 3. He dwells in heaven. 1 Kings 8:30, • 8. It embraces the entire universe. 34; Ps. 123:1; Eccl. 5:2. Deut. 10:14 ; Ps. 103 :19. 4. His throne located in the heavenly 9. The work of angels in God’s govern- temple. Ps. 11:4; 102:19; Rev. 11: ment. 2 Chron. 16:9; Ps. 139:7; 19. Matt. 18:10. [ 24 ] Ill. Earthly Governments Under God’s 12. He ordains earthly governments. Control Rom. 13:1-4.
- God rules by His own power. Ps. 13. Allegiance due to both divine and 66:7. earthly governments. Matt. 22:21.
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Men receive authority from God. 14. God’s government is supreme. Rev. Dan. 4:17. 17:14; 12:13.
THE LESSON Introduction NoTE.—"Heaven is a good place. I long to be there, and behold my lovely Jesus, The infinite God is King of kings and Lord who gave His life for me, and be changed of lords. 1 Tim. 6:15. But if He is a king, into His glorious image. Oh, for language He must have a kingdom. He must also to express the glory of the bright world to have a government and laws by which He come ! I thirst for the living streams that rules His subjects. The Scriptures make this make glad the city of our God."—Early very plain. Writings, page 39. Before the foundation of the world, Luci- "Language is altogether too feeble to at- fer endeavored to wrest from God control tempt a description of heaven. As the scene of the government of the universe. He failed rises before me, I am lost in amazement. in this attempt. God might have destroyed Carried away with the surpassing splendor him at once, but He did not because He and excellent glory, I lay down the pen, and desired to "show what must be the fruit exclaim, 'Oh, what love ! what wondrous of setting aside the divine authority." love!' The most exalted language fails to Through this experience He would demon- describe the glory of heaven or the match- strate "that with the existence of God's less depths of a Saviour's love."--Ibid., p. government is bound up the well-being of 289. all the creatures He has made."—Patriarchs and Prophets, page 43. 4. Where in heaven is God's throne located? Ps. 11:4; 102:19; Rev. 11:19. God Is a King - Why should earth’s inhabitants 5. What do Solomon and Paul say give glory to God? Ps. 29:2, 10; 47:2. concerning the ability of temples to contain God? 1 Kings 8:27; Acts 17: 24.
NOTE.—”God is our Father, who loves and cares for us as His children; He is also NOTE.—”Although God dwells not in the great King of the universe.”—Thoughts temples made with hands, yet He honors From the Mount of Blessing (1956 ed.), with His presence the assemblies of His page 107. people. He has promised that when they come together to seek Him, to acknowledge
- How long will God reign as their sins, and to pray for one another, He will meet with them by His Spirit. But King? Ex. 15:18; Ps. 10:16. those who assemble to worship Him should put away every evil thing. Unless they worship Him in spirit and truth and in the beauty of holiness, their coming together will be of no avail.”—Prophets and Kings,
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What term do Bible writers use page 50. to describe the place where God dwells? 1 Kings 8:30, 34; Ps. 123:1; 6. Although God dwells in heaven, Eccl. 5:2. where else does He abide? Isa. 57:15. [25 1 NoTE.—This text does not in any sense minimize the greatness of God by stating that He is able to dwell in human hearts that are surrendered to His will. Rather, it exalts Him, for it shows Him to be omni- present by His Spirit. God continues to rule the vast universe from His throne in heaven while at the same time through His Spirit He dwells with the humble believer. No other god can do this.
The Kingdom of God - On what principles has God founded His government? Ps. 97:2, margin; Heb. 1:8. GOD’S 4:82 UNIVERSAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM. 2.039 wac..n moss.
- Over how much territory does God rule? Deut. 10:14; Ps. 103:19. that every blessing comes from. God to us. In taking upon Himself humanity, our Saviour unites His interests with those of the fallen sons and daughters of Adam, NOTE.—”God’s government included not while through His divinity He grasps the only the inhabitants of heaven, but of all throne of God. And thus Christ is the the worlds that He had created.”—Patri- medium of communication of men with God, archs and Prophets, page 41. It is evident and of God with men.”—The Desire of that the government of God includes the Ages, page 143. entire universe. Earthly Governments Under God’s
- In what way does God keep in Control constant communication with all parts of His kingdom? 2 Chron. 16:9; Ps. 10. By what power does God rule? 139:7; Matt. 18:10. Ps. 66:7.
NoTE.—”The Bible shows us God in His NoTE.—”He ruleth by His power for- high and holy place, not in a state of in- ever.” Only God is responsible to Himself activity, not in silence and solitude, but alone. surrounded by ten thousand times ten thou- sand and thousands of thousands of holy 11. From whom do earthly rulers beings, all waiting to do His will. Through receive their kingdoms? Dan 4:17. these messengers He is in active communi- cation with every part of His dominion. By His Spirit He is everywhere present. Through the agency of His Spirit and His NOTE.—”In the annals of human history angels He ministers to the children of men.” the growth of nations, the rise and fall of —The Ministry of Healing, page 417. empires, appear as dependent on the will “The angels of God are ever passing and prowess of man. The shaping of events from earth to heaven, and from heaven to seems, to a great degree, to be determined earth. The miracles of Christ for the afflicted by his power, ambition, or caprice. But in and suffering were wrought by the power the word of God the curtain is drawn aside, of God through the ministration of the and we behold, behind, above, and through angels. And it is through Christ, by the all the play and counterplay of human in- ministration of His heavenly messengers, terests and power and passions, the agencies [ 26 ] of the all-merciful One, silently, patiently NorE.—In seeking to destroy God’s peo- working out the counsels of His own will.” ple, Satan believes that he can thus be- —Education, page 173. come the undisputed ruler of this world, with no one to resist his authority. But
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Why are we counseled to submit he fails to recognize that God still controls ourselves to earthly governments? this earth. Jesus is with His people, and Rom. 13:1-4. fights for them, overcoming Satan and his hosts. God’s government remains supreme.
Questions for Meditation - What did Jesus say about our 1. If we were always sharply conscious allegiance to divine and earthly of the fact that angels are taking to heaven governments? Matt. 22:21. a record of our lives, would we live differ- ently? 2. When there is a conflict between the government of God and my civil govern- ment, what principle should guide me in
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In Satan’s attempt to destroy my allegiance? God’s people before Christ’s return, 3. As the great controversy draws to a against whom is he actually making close, what will determine loyalty to God’s war? Rev. 17:14; 12:13. government?
Lesson 8, for May 23, 1959 God's Immutable Law
MEMORY VERSE: “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be ful- filled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Rom. 8:3, 4. STUDY HELPS: “Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing” 1956 ed., pp. 45-52 (1943 ed., pages 73-83); “The Great Controversy,” pages 492-504 (1950 subscrip- tion ed., pp. 487-498); “Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 363-373; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of May 7. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Cheek Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12-14. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 5-7. ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-11. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 2. Requires love to God and man. Matt. 22:37-40. Introduction 3. Perfect. Ps. 19:7. 4. Holy, just, good, and spiritual.(Rom. I. Nature of God’s Law 7:12, 14. 5. Eternal. Ps. 111:7, 8; Matt. 5:17, 18. 1. Based on love. Rom. 13:10. 6. Immutable. Ps. 89:34. [ 27 11. Purpose of God’s Law 14:15; 1 John 5:3. 11. Obeying it brings peace. Ps. 119: 7. To reveal His will to man. Ps. 40:8; 165; Jer. 7:23. Rom. 2:18. 8. To point out sin. Rom. 3:20; 7:7. 12. Warnings against breaking it. Matt. 5:17-19; Rev. 22:18, 19. 9. To serve as the standard of judg- ment. Eccl. 12:13, 14; James 2:12. 13. Can be kept through Christ. Rom. 8:3, 4; Heb. 8:10. I11. Man’s Relation to God’s Law 14. The obedient will enter heaven.
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The righteous will obey it. John Matt. 7:21; Rev. 14:12.
THE LESSON Introduction 2. According to Jesus, what two commandments summarize the divine "There can be no government without law? Matt. 22:37-40. law."-Patriarchs and Prophets, page 49. Thus, since God is King of the universe, and since He reigns over all, He must have a law by which to rule. That law is spoken NorE.-As a means of helping men see of in the Scriptures as the royal law. James that law-keeping necessitates a demonstra- 2:8. It is "the foundation of His [God's] tion of love, Christ told the story of the government in heaven and on earth."-Steps good Samaritan. "The Samaritan had to Christ (1956 ed.), page 24. obeyed the dictates of a kind and loving "The law of God is as sacred as Himself. heart, and in this had proved himself a It is a revelation of His will, a transcript doer of the law. Christ bade the lawyer, of His character, the expression of divine 'Go, and do thou likewise.' Doing, and not love and wisdom. The harmony of creation saying merely, is expected of the children of depends upon the perfect conformity of God. 'He that saith he abideth in Him all beings, of everything, animate and in- ought himself also so to walk, even as He animate, to the law of the Creator. God walked.' 1 John 2:6."-The Desire of Ages, has ordained laws for the government, not page 504. only of living beings, but of all the opera- tions of nature. Everything is under fixed 3. How do we know that God's law laws, which cannot be disregarded. But cannot be improved? Ps. 19:7. while everything in nature is governed by natural laws, man alone, of all that in- habits the earth, is amenable to moral law." -Patriarchs and Prophets, page 52. This NOTE.-"Since 'the law of the Lord is moral law, the Ten Commandments, is the perfect,' every variation from it must be subject of our study this week. evil."-The Desire of Ages, page 308. "From the first, the great controversy had been Nature of God's Law upon the law of God. Satan had sought to prove that God was unjust, that His law - What attribute of God’s charac- was faulty, and that the good of the uni- ter forms the basis of His law? Rom. verse required it to be changed. In attack- 13:10. ing the law, he aimed to overthrow the authority of its Author. In the contro- versy it was to be shown whether the divine statutes were defective and subject to NoTE.-“The law given upon Sinai was change, or perfect and immutable.”-Patri- the enunciation of the principle of love, a archs and Prophets, page 69. revelation to earth of the law of heaven.” -Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing 4. What characteristics does Paul (1956 ed.), page 46. ascribe to the law? Rom. 7:12, 14. [281 NOTE.—God’s will is revealed through His law. •When we disobey the law, we re- ject His will for us. It is not the greatness of the act of disobedience that constitutes sin, but the fact of variance from God’s expressed will in the least particular; for this shows that there is yet communion between the soul and sin. The heart is divided in its service. There is a virtual de- nial of God, a rebellion against the laws of His government. . . . “Whenever men choose their own way, they place themselves in controversy with God. . . . In disregarding the will of God, they are placing themselves on the side of Satan, the enemy of God and man.”— Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing (1956 ed.), pages 51, 52. 8. Besides being a revelation of God’s will for man, what other im-
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For how long will the law en- portant purpose does the law serve? dure? Ps. 111:7, 8; Matt. 5:17, 18. Rom. 3:20; 7:7.
NOTE.—"The law reveals to man his sins, NoTE.—Here He teaches, not merely what but it provides no remedy. While it promises the claims of God's law had been, and were life to the obedient, it declares that death then, but that these claims should hold as is the portion of the transgressor. The long as the heavens and the earth remain. gospel of Christ alone can free him from The law of God is as immutable as His the condemnation or the defilement of sin. throne. It will maintain its claims upon . . . Without the law, men have no just mankind in all ages."—Patriarchs and conception of the purity and holiness of Prophets, page 365. God or of their own guilt and uncleanness. They have no true conviction of sin and - How may we be certain that feel no need of repentance. Not seeing their God’s law will not be changed? Ps. lost condition as violators of God’s law, 89:34. they do not realize their need of the aton- ing blood of Christ.”—The Great Contro- versy, pages 467, 468. 9. By what standard will our lives NorE.—”The law of God, from its very be measured in the judgment? Eccl. nature, is unchangeable. It is a revelation 12:13, 14; James 2:12. of the will and the character of its Author. God is love, and His law is love. Its two great principles are love to God and love NOTE.—”The written word, the law of to man. . . . Such a law, being an ex- God, will measure the character of every pression of the mind and will of God, must man and condemn all whom this unerring be as enduring as its Author.”—The Great test shall declare wanting.”—The Great Controversy, page 467. Controversy, page 268. Purpose of God’s Law Man’s Relation to God’s Law
- What essential information does 10. What relation to His law will God’s law impart to mankind? Ps. be sustained by those who claim to 40:8; Rom. 2:18. love God? John 14:15; 1 John 5:3. 129 ] NorE.—”There are only two classes in the 13. What provision has been made world today, and only two classes will be to enable men to obey the moral law? recognized in the judgment—those who vio- Rom. 8:3, 4; Heb. 8:10. late God’s law and those who obey it. Christ gives the test by which to prove our loyalty or disloyalty. ‘If ye love Me,’ He says, `keep My commandments…. He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he NOTE.—”The same law that was engraved it is that loveth Me.’ “—Christ’s Object upon the tables of stone, is written by the Lessons (1941 ed.), page 283. Holy Spirit upon the tables of the heart. In- stead of going about to establish our own
- What blessing will be given on righteousness, we accept the righteousness this earth to those who obey God’s of Christ. His blood atones for our sins. law? Ps. 119:165; Jer. 7:23. His obedience is accepted for us. Then the heart renewed by the Holy Spirit will bring forth ‘the fruits of the Spirit.’ Through the grace of Christ we shall live in obedience
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What warning is issued against to the law of God written upon our hearts.” all who might willfully break the law —Patriarchs and Prophets, page 372. and encourage others to disobey it? Matt. 5:17-19; Rev. 22:18, 19. 14. Who will be chosen as subjects of God’s eternal kingdom? Matt. 7: 21; Rev. 14:12. NOTE.—”Such are the warnings which God has given to guard men against chang- ing in any manner that which He has re- vealed or commanded. These solemn denun- ciations apply to all who by their influence Questions for Meditation lead men to regard lightly the law of God. 1. We know that suffering follows the They should cause those to fear and tremble violation of natural law. Is this also true who flippantly declare it a matter of little with the moral law? consequence whether we obey God’s law or not. All who exalt their own opinions above 2. Since the law is spiritual, what will it divine revelation, all who would change do for me if I embrace it? If I reject it? the plain meaning of Scripture to suit their 3. Will the righteous be admitted to own convenience, or for the sake of con- heaven as a reward for obedience, or will forming to the world, are taking upon them- this experience be granted because through selves a fearful responsibility.”—The Great faith they have demonstrated their harmony Controversy, page 268. with God’s principles by obedience?
Lesson 9, for May 30, 1959 God's Sacred Name
MEMORY VERSE: “Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of My God, and the name of the city of My God, which is New Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from My God: and I will write upon him My new name.” Rev. 3:12. STUDY HELPS: “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” vol. 1, pp. 170- 173; “Patriarchs and Prophets,” pages 303-314; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of May 14. [301 DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. 0 Wednesday: Questions 12-14. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-4. 0 Thursday: Read from Study Helps. 0 Monday: Questions 5-8. 0 Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 9-11. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. 0
Lesson Outline 7. God’s name to be hallowed. Matt. 6:9. Introduction 8. Blasphemy punished by death. Lev. 24:10-16. I. Sacred Nature and Greatness of God’s 9. Jews shocked at Christ’s claim. John Name 8:58, 59; 10:33. 1. God’s name is holy and reverend. 10. Man to glorify and reverence God’s Ps. 99:3; 111:9. name. 1 Chron. 16:25-29; Ps. 95: 2. It will endure forever. Ps. 135:13. 1-6. 3. It reveals His character. Ex. 3:13, I11. God’s Name and Salvation 14; 34:14; Isa. 1:4; 57:15. 4. Why it should be praised. Ps. 148:5, 11. Salvation in His name. Acts 4:12 ; 13. Matt. 28:19. 5. Worthy of continual praise. Ps. 34: 12. Christ’s name to be exalted. Eph. 1; 113:3. 1:17-23 ; Phil. 2:9-11; Rev. 19:16.
- Man’s Attitude Toward God’s Name 13. We are to pray in the name of Jesus.
John 16:23, 24.
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Warning against careless use. Ex. 14. His name to be given to redeemed. 20:7. Rev. 3:12; 14:1; 22:4.
THE LESSON Introduction The R.V. of 1885 and A.S.V. of 1901 trans- literate Yahweh as 'Jehovah.' To the Jews "Since names meant so much to the Semite this has ever been the sacred name by which mind, it was important for Moses to re- the true God is distinguished from all false veal to his people the true nature of their gods."-The Seventh-day Adventist Bible God, who was now ready to deliver them Commentary, vol. 1, p. 511. from bondage.... "God therefore revealed to Moses, or Sacred Nature and Greatness of rather explained to him, the name by which God's Name He had made Himself known to Abraham at the making of the covenant (Gen. 15:7). 1. What characteristics does David In Hebrew as in English, this name is a ascribe to God's name? Ps. 99:3; form of the verb 'to be,' and implies that 111:9. its possessor is the eternal, self-existing One. . Its all-embracing universality precluded any comparison of the God of the Israelites to the deities of Egypt and other nations. 2. For how long will God's name It was designed to provide Moses and his endure? Ps. 135:13. people with strong consolation in their affliction and powerful support for their confidence in the realization of His purpose to deliver them.... NOTE.-Behind the simple statement that "From the Hebrew word translated as God's name will endure forever are other 'I am' comes the derived form Y ahweh. . . . profound truths. His name will endure be- [ 31 ]cause He Himself is from everlasting to everlasting. And His name will not change, for He Himself is unchanging. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
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What are some of the names that God uses to represent His character to mankind? Ex. 3:13, 14; 34:14; Isa. 1:4; 57:15.
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Why should we praise God’s name? Ps. 148:5, 13.
- When is it appropriate to praise IN ISRAEL BLASPHEMY WAS God? Ps. 34:1; 113:3. Compare Ps. PUNISHED BY STONING. 50.2 150. NorE.—”To hallow the name ‘of the Lord NOTE.—God does not expect that we shall requires that the words in which we speak repeat His name over and over like a chant. of the Supreme Being be uttered with rev- We can praise Him from the heart without erence. . . . We are never in any manner to giving audible expression to our feelings, treat lightly the titles or appellations of the and we can bring praise to His name by Deity. In prayer we enter the audience revealing His character to others. chamber of the Most High ; and we should come before Him with holy awe. The angels veil their faces in His presence. The cheru- Man’s Attitude Toward God’s Name bim and the bright and holy seraphim ap-
- What warning concerning the proach His throne with solemn reverence. careless use of God’s name is contained How much more should we, finite, sinful beings, come in a reverent manner before in the third commandment of the the Lord, our Maker !”—Thoughts From the Decalogue? Ex. 20:7. Mount of Blessing (1956 ed.), page 106. 8. In ancient times, how did God NorE.—”This commandment not only show the serious nature of blasphemy? prohibits false oaths and common swearing, Lev. 24:10-16. but it forbids us to use the name of God in a light or careless manner, without re- gard to its awful significance. By the thoughtless mention of God in common con- NOTE.—”Both love and justice require it versation, by appeals to Him in trivial mat- to be shown that utterances prompted by ters, and by the frequent and thoughtless malice against God are a great sin. The repetition of His name, we dishonor Him. retribution visited upon the first offender `Holy and reverend is His name.’ Psalm 111: would be a warning to others, that God’s
- All should meditate upon His majesty, His name is to be held in reverence. But had purity and holiness, that the heart may be this man’s sin been permitted to pass un- impressed with a sense of His exalted char- punished, others would have been demoral- acter; and His holy name should be uttered ized; and as the result, many lives must with reverence and solemnity.”—Patriarchs eventually have been sacrificed. . . . The and Prophets, pages 306, 307. sins of blasphemy and willful Sabbathbreak- ing received the same punishment, being
- In the Lord’s Prayer, how is the equally an expression of contempt for the sacredness of God’s name expressed? authority of God.”—Patriarchs and Proph- Matt. 6:9. ets, pages 408, 409. 32 9. What was the reaction of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Be- Jews when Christ claimed one of the fore man can find a home in the church, titles belonging to Deity? John 8:58, before passing the threshold of God’s 59; 10:33. spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the im- press of the divine name, ‘The Lord our Righteousness.’ Jeremiah 23:6.” — Testi- monies, vol. 6, p. 91. NoTE.—”Silence fell upon the vast as- sembly. The name of God, given to Moses 12. Because of Christ’s unselfish to express the idea of the eternal presence, part in the plan of salvation, how will had been claimed as His own by this Gal- His name be honored? Eph. 1:17-23; ilean Rabbi. He had announced Himself to Phil. 2:9-11; Rev. 19:16. be the self-existent One, He who had been promised to Israel, ‘whose goings forth have been from of old, from the days of eternity.’ Micah 5:2, margin.”—The De- sire of Ages, pages 469, 470. NoTE.—”Before the universe has been clearly presented the great sacrifice made by
- What attitude should we as- the Father and the Son in man’s behalf. The sume when we come into the presence hour has come when Christ occupies His rightful position and is glorified above of God in prayer? Why? 1 Chron. principalities and powers and every name 16:25-29; Ps. 95:1-6. that is named. It was for the joy that was set before Him—that He might bring many sons unto glory—that He endured the cross and despised the shame. And in- NcrrE.—“I saw that God’s holy name conceivably great as was the sorrow and the should be used with reverence and awe. shame, yet greater is the joy and the glory.” The words God Almighty are coupled to- —The Great Controversy, page 671. gether and used by some in prayer in a careless, thoughtless manner, which is dis- 13. In whose name is the Christian pleasing to Him. Such have no realizing to present his petition to the Father? sense of God or the truth, or they would not speak so irreverently of the great and John 16:23, 24. dreadful God, who is soon to judge them in the last day. Said the angel, ‘Couple them not together; for fearful is His name.’ Those who realize the greatness and majesty NOTE.—”To pray in the name of Jesus of - God, will take His name on their lips is something more than a mere mention of with holy awe. He dwelleth in light un- that name at the beginning and the ending approachable; no man can see Him and of a prayer. It is to pray in the mind and live. I saw that these things will have to be spirit of Jesus, while we believe His understood and corrected before the church promises, rely upon His grace, and work can prosper.”—Early Writings, page 122. His works.”—Steps to Christ (1956 ed.), pages 100, 101. God’s Name and Salvation 14. What wonderful promise will
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How important is the divine be fulfilled to the redeemed? Rev. 3: name in God’s plan for saving men? 12; 14:1; 22:4. Acts 4:12; Matt. 28:19.
NoTE.—"All the treasures of the universe NoTE.—"Christ has made baptism the sign will be open to the study of God's re- of entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He deemed. Unfettered by mortality, they has made this a positive condition with wing their tireless flight to worlds afar— which all must comply who wish to be worlds that thrilled with sorrow at the acknowledged as under the authority of the spectacle of human woe, and rang with [ 38songs of gladness at the tidings of a ran- played.”-The Great Controversy, pages somed soul. With unutterable delight the 677, 678. children of earth enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen beings. They share the Questions for Meditation treasures of knowledge and understanding 1. Why should we not continually re- gained through ages upon ages in contempla- peat God’s name, even in prayer? tion of God’s handiwork. With undimmed 2. In view of the sacredness of God’s vision they gaze upon the glory of crea- name, why should we guard our speech tion-suns and stars and systems, all in against the use of such bywords as “my their appointed order circling the throne of goodness,” “my word,” “mercy,” “gracious,” Deity. Upon all things, from the least to etc.? the greatest, the Creator’s name is written, 3. What is meant by having the Father’s and in all are the riches of His power dis- name written in our foreheads?
Lesson 10, for June 6, 1959 God's Omnipotence MEMORY VERSE: "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." Jude 24, 25. STUDY HELPS: "Testimonies," vol. 4, pp. 287-290; "Education," pages 102-108; "Counsels to Teachers," pages 185-190; "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 174-176: "The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary," on lesson texts; Lesson Help in "Review and Herald" of May 21. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-14. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 5. Shown in judgments. Isa. 26:9. 6. Shown through the birth of Isaac. Introduction Gen. 18:14; 21:1, 2. 7. In bringing Israel out of Egypt. I. God the Source of All Power Deut 4:37. 8. By His dealings with the Hebrew
- God the source of power forever. children. Dan. 3:17, 28; 6:16, 19-23. 1 Chron. 29:11, 12; Ps. 62:11; Matt. 9. Adequate for every emergency. Ps. 6:13. 107:2-6, 23-31; Jonah 1:17; 2:1, 2,
- Nothing impossible for God. Job 10. 42:2; Mark 10:27.
- He upholds nature. Ps. 104:14; Isa. God’s Power to Save Men 40:26; Jer. 5:22; 51:15. 10. Gospel is power for salvation. Rom.
- God’s Power in Dealing With Men 1:16.
11. Power of the resurrection. Eph.
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Destroyed the antediluvians and 1:18-20. Sodomites. Gen. 6:5-7; 7:18-23; 12. God’s power defeats Satan. Luke 19:24-26. 9:42, 43 ; Col. 1:12, 13. 1 34] 13. Will give victory to saints. Eph. 3: 14. All power behind the church. Matt. 20; Phil. 1:6; Jude 24, 25. 28:18.
THE LESSON Introduction must be sent to give moisture to the thirsty fields, the sun must impart heat, electricity "Nature testifies that One infinite in power must be conveyed to the buried seed. The . . . created the earth. . . . The everlasting life which the Creator has implanted, He hills tell us of His power.... alone can call forth. Every seed grows, "The mighty power that works through every plant develops, by the power of God." all nature and sustains all things is not, as —Christ's Object Lessons (1941), page 63. some men of science represent, merely an "It is by the mighty power of the Infinite all-pervading principle, an actuating energy. One that the elements of nature in earth God is a Spirit; yet He is a personal Be- and sea and sky are kept within bounds. ing; for so He has revealed Himself. . . . And these elements He uses for the happi- The things of nature are an expression of ness of His creatures."—Prophets and Kings, God's character and power; but we are page 134. not to regard nature as God. . . . "It is not by inherent power that year God's Power In Dealing With Men by year the earth yields its bounties and continues its march around the sun. The 4. What examples of God's power hand of the Infinite One is perpetually at to destroy have been recorded in the work guiding this planet. It is God's power Inspired Word? Gen. 6:5-7; 7:18-23; continually exercised that keeps the earth in 19:24-26. position in its rotation.... "It is by His power that vegetation is caused to flourish, that every leaf appears, every flower blooms, every fruit develops." —The Ministry of Healing, pages 411-416. 5. For what reason does God some- times allow natural disasters? Isa. God the Source of All Power 26:9.
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- Who is the source of all power, and for how long will this be so? 1 Chron. 29:11, 12; Ps. 62:11; Matt. NOTE.—The same God who created our 6:13. world and maintains it, often demonstrates His power through nature in order that men might think of Him. “As men have• beheld burning mountains pouring forth fire and
- What is the extent of God’s flames, and torrents of melted ore, drying power? Job 42:2; Mark 10:27. up rivers, overwhelming populous cities, and everywhere spreading ruin and desola- tion, the stoutest heart has been filled with terror, and infidels and blasphemers have been constrained to acknowledge the in-
- How does nature demonstrate finite power of God. . . . ‘The Lord hath the continual exercise of God’s power? His way in the whirlwind and in the storm, Ps. 104:14; Isa. 40:26; Jer. 5:22; 51:15. and the clouds are the dust of His feet. He rebuketh the sea, and maketh it dry, and drieth up all the rivers.’ Nahum 1:3, 4.”— Patriarchs and Prophets, page 109. NorE.—”There is life in the seed, there is power in the soil; but unless an infinite 6. How did God prove to Abraham power is exercised day and night, the seed and Sarah that nothing is impossible will yield no returns. The showers of rain with Him? Gen. 18:14; 21:1, 2. 35 NOTE.—”The veil of anonymity was now thrown completely aside, and the speaker unmistakably identified Himself as the Lord. It is interesting to note that although this divine appearance was perhaps intended more for Sarah’s benefit than for Abraham’s, since he already knew and believed, the Lord did not address Sarah directly until she had first spoken to Him. Instead of speaking to Sarah, He asked Abraham whether anything could be too difficult for the Lord. It was primarily to correct Sarah’s unbelief and to strengthen her faith that God spoke thus. Where human wisdom and strength fail, and where nature, enfeebled, lacks ability to act, there God still has full sway and brings things to pass according NWM
to the counsels of His own divine will. In ATOMIC EXPLOSIONS GIVE MAN A HINT OF GOD’S POWER. fact, He often permits circumstances to z q 50 - 10 reach an impasse so that human impotence may stand forth in striking contrast to His omnipotence.”—The Seventh-day Adventist 9. How adequate is God’s power Bible Commentary, vol. 1, p. 328. for every emergency? Ps. 107:2-6, 23- 31. Compare Jonah 1:17; 2:1, 2, 10.
- In the experience of Israel, how did God demonstrate His mighty power? Deut. 4:37. God’s Power to Save Men 10. What does Paul declare the gos-
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In what ways did God show the pel to be? Rom. 1:16. Babylonian king that His power is supreme? Dan. 3:17, 28; 6:16, 19-23.
NoTE.—The same great power that God NOTE.—"But the Lord did not forget His has demonstrated through creation, through own. As His witnesses were cast into the His dealings with men, and through up- furnace, the Saviour revealed Himself to holding the vast universe is turned toward them in person, and together they walked saving men. The gospel "is the power of in the midst of the fire. In the presence of God unto salvation." the Lord of heat and cold, the flames lost their power to consume.... 11. What example of God's power "Forgotten was the great golden image, shows how mightily He will work to set up with such pomp. In the presence of save sinners? Eph. 1:18-20. the living God, men feared and trembled.... "By the deliverance of His faithful ser- vants, the Lord declared that He takes His stand with the oppressed, and rebukes all 12. What assurance have we of the earthly powers that rebel against the author- triumph of God's power over Satan's? ity of Heaven. ... Luke 9:42, 43; Col. 1:12, 13. "As in the days of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, so in the closing period of earth's history the Lord will work mightily in behalf of those who stand steadfastly for the right. He who walked with the Hebrew 13. How fully does God's power worthies in the fiery furnace will be with enable us to be victorious in the Chris- His followers wherever they are."—Proph- tian life? Eph. 3:20; Phil. 1:6; Jude 24, ets and Kings, pages 508-513. 25. [ 36 j14. How much of God’s power and lows; He had raised the dead to life. Now authority is promised to the church for He declared that ‘all power’ was given to its task of world evangelism? Matt. Him. His words carried the minds of His 28:18. hearers above earthly and temporal things to the heavenly and eternal. They were lifted to the highest conception of His dignity and glory…. Clothed with bound- NorE.—”He came and spoke to them say- less authority, He gave His commission to ing, ‘All power is given unto Me in heaven the disciples: ‘Go ye therefore, and teach and in earth.’ The disciples had worshiped all nations.’ “—The Desire of Ages, page Him before He spoke, but His words, fall- 819. ing from lips that had been closed in death, Questions for Meditation thrilled them with peculiar power. He was now the risen Saviour. Many of them had 1. True or false? Vegetation could grow seen Him exercise His power in healing the without the exercise of divine power. sick and controlling satanic agencies. They 2. Which is more impressive to you— believed that He possessed power to set up God’s power to heal, or His power to de- His kingdom at Jerusalem, power to quell stroy? all opposition, power over the elements of 3. When we fail to obtain the victory nature. He had stilled the angry waters; over some besetting sin, what is the real He had walked upon the white-crested bil- reason for failure?
Lesson 11, for June 13, 1959 God's Consuming Glory
MEMORY VERSE: “Lift up your heads, 0 ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory.” Ps. 24:9, 10. STUDY HELPS: “Testimonies,” vol. 8, pp. 255-262; “The Great Controversy,” pages 640-652 (1950 subscription ed., pp. 627-643); “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of May 28.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
Lesson Outline 3. The redeemed give God glory for- ever. Rev. 5:13. Introduction I. Nature and Extent of God’s Glory 11. God’s Glory Revealed to Men 1. God alone deserving of glory. Isa. 4. Moses and the burning bush. Ex. 42:8, 12. 3:2-6. 2. Nature bears witness to His glory. 5. God’s glory on Mount Sinai. Ex. Ps. 19:1-3 ; Isa. 6:3. 19:16-18; 24:16, 17. 37 6. Effect on Moses. Ex. 34:29-35. Ill. The Glory of Christ, and His Coming 7. God’s glory in the sanctuary. Lev. 10. Christ the King of glory. Heb. 1:2, 16:2. 3; Ps. 24:7-10. 11. Combined glory at Christ’s coming. 8. Too great for priests to endure. Ex. Ps. 50:3; Matt. 24:27; Luke 9:26. 40:34, 35 ; 1 Kings 8:10, 11; 2 Chron. 12. Glory to destroy wicked. Isa. 2:10; 5:14; 7:1-3. 2 Thess. 1:7-9. 9. The visions of Isaiah and John. 13. Righteous will rejoice to see. Isa. Isa. 6:1-4; Rev. 15:8. 25:9.
THE LESSON
Introduction NOTE.-"Glory. Wisdom, power, skill,
benevolence-the things that constitute None can fully appreciate the greatness God's glory. A glimpse at the open sky of God unless they understand something with the naked eye is sufficient to impress of His glory. The Scriptures declare that upon the beholder a sense of the glory of "our God is a consuming fire." Heb. 12:29; God. How much greater is that revelation Deut. 4:24. This description is designed to when the heavens are scrutinized through picture the great glory that attends His modern high-powered telescopes."-The person. This glory is the outshining of His Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, character. Ex. 33:18-20. vol. 3, p. 675. Of her own experience in vision, Ellen G. White has written: "I saw a throne, and on 3. In what words will every crea- it sat the Father and the Son. I gazed on ture in the universe finally ascribe Jesus' countenance and admired His lovely praise to God for His glory? Rev. 5:13. person. The Father's person I could not behold, for a cloud of glorious light covered Him. I asked Jesus if His Father had a form like Himself. He said He had, but I could not behold it, for said He, 'If you NorE.-"John, in the Revelation, looking should once behold the glory of His person, forward to the eternal state, hears a uni- you would cease to exist.' "-Early Writ- versal anthem of praise undisturbed by one ings, page 54. How great is our God! Let note of discord."-The Great Controversy, mortal man bow low before Him in humility page 545. and awe.
God's Glory Revealed to Men Nature and Extent of God's Glory
4. How was God's glory revealed 1. Who alone is worthy to receive to Moses while he was tending his glory? Isa. 42:8, 12. flocks? What was his reaction? Ex.
3:2-6.
NcrrE.-Because God’s glory is inseparably connected with His character, His power, NOTE.-“Moses saw a bush in flames, and His works, it is impossible for any branches, foliage, and trunk, all burning, other being to share it. He alone is the yet seeming not to be consumed.”-Patri- supreme manifestation of truth, and “the archs and Prophets, page 251. truth and the glory of God are inseparable.” “The place where Moses stood was holy, -The Great Controversy, page 597. not because it was an old sanctuary or sacred spot previously unknown as such to
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Of what does all nature bear wit- him, as some commentators have thought, ness? Ps. 19:1-3; Isa. 6:3. but because of the presence of God.”- [ 88 1 The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commen- 7. How great was God’s glory in the tary, vol. 1, p. 510. “The glory of the holy most holy place of the earthly sanctu- God no sinful man can bear; hence it was ary? Lev. 16:2. only natural for Moses to hide his face.”— Ibid.
- When God manifested His glory NOTE.—”In the sanctuary and the temple, on Mount Sinai, what effect did it that were the earthly symbols of God’s have on both the mountain and the dwelling place, one apartment was sacred to people? Ex. 19:16-18; 24:16, 17. His presence. The veil inwrought with cherubim at its entrance was not to be lifted by any hand save one. To lift that veil and intrude unbidden into the sacred mystery of the most holy place was death. NOTE.—”From the thick darkness flashed For above the mercy seat and the bowed, vivid lightnings, while peals of thunder worshiping angels dwelt the glory of the echoed and re-echoed among the surround- Holiest, glory upon which no man might ing heights. . . . So terrible were the tokens look and live. On the •one day of the year of Jehovah’s presence that the hosts of Israel appointed for ministry in the most holy shook with fear, and fell upon their faces place, the high priest with trembling en- before the Lord. Even Moses exclaimed, ‘I tered God’s presence, while clouds of in- exceedingly fear and quake.’ “—Patriarchs cense veiled the glory from his sight.”— and Prophets, page 304. Testimonies, vol. 8, pp. 284, 285. “ ‘And they saw the God of Israel; and there was under His feet as it were a paved 8. What conditions sometimes made work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in His clearness.’ They it impossible for Moses and the priests did not behold the Deity, but they saw the to enter the tabernacle? Ex. 40:34, glory of His presence.”—/bid., p. 312. 35; 1 Kings 8:10, 11; 2 Chron. 5:14; 7:1-3.
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What was the effect on Moses of spending forty days with God in the mount? What did he do so that the people could look upon him without 9. When Isaiah and John beheld in fear? Ex. 34:29-35. vision the glory of God in the heav- enly sanctuary, what did they say con- cerning its effects on the building? Isa. 6:1-4; Rev. 15:8. NOTE.—”By this brightness, God designed to impress upon Israel the sacred, exalted character of His law, and the glory of the gospel revealed through Christ. . . . It was the heavenly light streaming from Calvary, The Glory of Christ, and His no less than the glory of the law of God, Coming that shed such a radiance upon the face of Moses. . . . 10. How does Christ’s glory com- “The glory reflected in the countenance of pare with the Father’s? By what title Moses illustrates the blessings to be re- was He addressed as He ascended to ceived by God’s commandment-keeping peo- heaven? Heb. 1:2, 3; Ps. 24:7-10. ple through the mediation of Christ. It testifies that the closer our communion with God, and the clearer our knowledge of His requirements, the more fully shall we be conformed to the divine image, and the more 11. When Christ returns to earth, readily do we become partakers of the how great will be the glory that at- divine nature.”—Patriarchs and Prophets, tends Him? Ps. 50:3; Matt. 24:27; page 330. Luke 9:26. [ 89 ] They would welcome destruction, that they might be hidden from the face of Him who died to redeem them.”—Steps to Christ (1956 ed.), page 18. 13. Why will the glory which at- tends Christ’s return not strike fear to the hearts of the righteous? Isa. 25:9.
NoTE.—God's glory is a terror to evil- doers, but not to the righteous. Like the pillar of cloud anciently that thwarted Pharoah's plans to destroy Israel but flooded ONLY THE RIGHTEOUS CAN the Israelites' "entire encampment with the STAND CHRIST'S GLORY. radiance of day" (Patriarchs and Prophets, 2Q 50-11 page 287), so the glory of God destroys the wicked without harming God's faithful NOTE.—At Christ's resurrection a single followers. angel appeared. Yet this was sufficient to "To His faithful followers Christ has cause a great earthquake and make the been a daily companion and familiar friend. usually brave Roman guards become "as They have lived in close contact, in constant dead men." Matt. 28:2-4. Think of the communion with God. Upon them the dazzling glory that will characterize Christ's glory of the Lord has risen. In them the second advent "when He shall come in His light of the knowledge of the glory of God own glory, and in His Father's, and of the in the face of Jesus Christ has been re- holy angels." Matthew 25:31 says that all flected. Now they rejoice in the undimmed the holy angels will come with Him. No rays of the brightness and glory of the wonder the same verse says that He shall King in His majesty."—Christ's Object Les- "sit upon the throne of His glory"! sons (1941 ed.), page 421. -
What effect will the glory of Questions for Meditation Christ’s coming have upon the wicked? Isa. 2:10; 2 Thess. 1:7-9. 1. Which brings greater awe to you— the thought of the dazzling brilliance of God’s person or the glory of His character? 2. What effect do you think it would have NoTE.—”It is no arbitrary decree on the on our countenance if we should spend part of God that excludes the wicked from more time with God than we do? heaven: they are shut out by their own un- 3. As you think of all the glory that will fitness for its companionship. The glory attend the coming of Christ, are you fear- of God would be to them a consuming fire. ful or do you rejoice? Why?
Lesson 12, for June 20, 1959 God's Holy Word MEMORY VERSE: "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth for- ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you." 1 Peter 1:23-25. [ 40 ]STUDY HELPS: “Christ’s Object Lessons,” pages 103-114, 124-134; “The Desire of Ages,” pages 315-320; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of June 4.
DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 11-13. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-4. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. Monday: Questions 5-7. ' ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-10. ❑ Helps; review entire lesson. - ❑
Lesson Outline 7. Spiritual growth through the word. 1 Peter 2:2. Introduction 8. Sin in the life conquered through the I. The Power of God’s Spoken Word word. Ps. 119:9, 11; John 15:3; Eph. 5:25-27. 1. Universe maintained by the word. 9. Abiding in Christ thrOugh the word. Heb. 1:1-3. John 15:4, 7. 2. The worlds created by the word. 10. Holy Spirit accompanies the Word. Ps. 33:6, 9; 148:5. Eph. 6:17. 3. God’s word like fire and hammer. 11. Eternal life through the word. John Jer. 23:29. 6:63; 5:24. 4. Judgments on wicked by the word. 2 Peter 3:5-7. I11. Eternal and Unchanging Nature of 5. Healing through the word. Ps. 107: Griod’s Word 20; Matt. 8:8.
- Spiritual Blessings Through the • 12. God’s word will endure forever.
Written Word
Mark 13:31; 1 Peter 1:25.
13. Warning to those who would at-
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New birth by the word.’ John 3:3; tempt to change the word. Rev. James 1:18; 1 Peter 1:23. 22:18, 19.
THE LESSON Introduction reading and contemplation of the Scriptures would be regarded as an audience with the The term "word of God" is threefold in Infinite One."-Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 393. meaning: It indicates God's spoken word; "The Saviour desired to fix the faith of it describes the written word, the Scrip- His followers on the word. When His visible tures; and it refers to the Son of God, both presence should be withdrawn, the word in heaven before the incarnation and after must be their source of power. Like their His birth as the Son of man. See John 1: Master, they were to live `by every word 1-3, 14. that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.' Wherever Jesus, the Word, went, the peo- Matt. 4:4."-The Desire of Ages, page 390. ple were blessed. Living nineteen centuries later, we perhaps sometimes feel that the The Power of God's Spoken Word disciples and others had spiritual opportun- ities that are not now available to us. But 1. By what. power are the worlds we should remember that "the Bible is held in their orbits? Heb. 1:1-3. God's voice speaking to us, just as surely as though we could hear it with our ears. If we realized this, with what awe would we open God's word, and with what earnest- 2. How did God create the worlds? ness would we search its precepts ! The Ps. 33:6, 148:5. [ 41 ]NOTE.—”The work of creation cannot be NoTE.—”The creative energy that called explained by science. What science can ex- the worlds into existence is in the word of plain the mystery of life? God. This word imparts power; it begets “ ‘Through faith we understand that the life. Every command is a promise; accepted worlds were framed by the word of God, by the will, received into the soul, it brings so that things which are seen were not made with it the life of the Infinite One. It trans- of things which do appear.’ Hebrews 11: forms the nature, and re-creates the soul in the image of God.”—Education, page .126. “In the creation of the earth, God was not indebted to pre-existing matter. ‘He 7. Following the new birth, what spake, and it was; . .. He commanded, and must take place in the life of a be- it stood fast.’ Psalm 33:9. All things, ma- liever? What is the agent for growth? terial or spiritual, stood up before the Lord Jehovah at His voice and were created for 1 Peter 2:2. His own purpose. The heavens and all the host of them, the earth and all things there- in, came into existence by the breath of His mouth.”—The Ministry of Healing, pages 414, 415. NarE.—”All who study the word are ‘rep- resented as eating the word, feeding on Christ. . . . Even as the bodily necessities
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- Through what illustrations does must be supplied daily, so the word of God God indicate the power that His word must be daily studied—eaten, and digested, possesses? Jer. 23:29. and practiced. This sustains the nourish- ment, to keep the soul in health.. The neg- lect of the word means starvation to the soul. The word describes the blessed man
- Through what means was the as one meditating day and night upon the earth destroyed by the Flood, and what truths of God’s word. We all are to feast future event is to take place by the upon the word of God. The relation of same power? 2 Peter 3:5-7. the word to the believer is a vital matter. Appropriating the word to our spiritual necessities is the eating of the leaves of the tree of life that are for the healing of the
- What examples are given of the nations. Study the word, and practice the healing power of God’s word? Ps. word, for it is your life.”—Counsels on Sabbath School Work, pages 43, 44. 107:20; Matt. 8:8. 8. What effect ‘will :God’s word have on sin in the life? Ps. 119:9, 11; NoTE.—”It was by His word that Jesus John 15:3; Eph. 5:25-27. healed disease and cast out demons; by His word He stilled the sea and raised the dead; and the people bore witness that His word was with power. He spoke the word of God, as He had spoken to all the prophets NOTE.—”The means by which we can and teachers of the Old Testament. The overcome the wicked one is that by which whole Bible is a manifestation of Christ.” Christ overcame,—the power of the word. —The Ministry of Healing, page 122. God does not control our minds without • our consent; but if we desire to know and Spiritual Blessings Through the to do His will, His promises are ours: ‘Ye shall know the truth, and the truth, shall Written Word make you free.’ ‘If any man willeth to do His will, he shall know of the .teaching.’
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How important is the new birth, John 8:32; 7:17, R.V. Through faith in and through what agency does God these promises, every man may be delivered accomplish this work? John 3:3; James from the snares of error and the control.of 1:18; 1 Peter 1:23. sin.”—The Desire of Ages, page 258. 42 the Apostles, page 520. Since the Holy Spirit is received through the word, it is ap- parent that the latter rain will fall on those who are being faithful in studying the Bible. 11. What supreme gift comes through the words of Christ? John 6:63; 5:24.
NOTE.—"The word of God is the seed. Every seed has in itself a germinating prin- ciple. In it the life of the plant is enfolded. So there is life in God's word. . . . In 4, every command and in every promise of the G CREATION, NEW BIRTH, HEALING, AND word of God is the power, the very life of ETERNAL LIFE COME THROUGH THE . WORD OF GOD. God, by which the command may be ful- Q 52 - 12 NWM filled and the promise realized. He who by faith receives the word is receiving the very - What close relationship did life and character of God.”—Christ’s Object Christ say He and His followers should Lessons, page 38. bear one to another? How is this to Eternal and Unchanging Nature be accomplished? John 15:4, 7. of God’s Word 12. How long will God’s word en- NOTE.—”It is through the word that dure? Mark 13:31; 1 Peter 1:25. Christ abides in His followers. This is the same vital union that is represented by eating His flesh and drinking His blood. The words of Christ are spirit and life. Re- NOTE.—”That word which reveals the ceiving them, you receive the life of the guilt of sin has a power upon the human Vine. You live. `by every word that pro- heart to make man right and keep him so. ceedeth out of .the mouth of God.’ Matt. The Lord has said that His word is to be 4:4.”—The Desire of Ake; page 677. studied and obeyed; it is to be brought into “The .reception .of the word, the bread the practical life; that word is as inflexible from heaven, is declared to be the reception as the character of God—the same yester- of Christ Himself. As the word of God day, today, and forever.”—Testimonies to is received into the soul, we partake of the Ministers, pages 80, 81. flesh and blood of the Son of God. . . . As the blood is formed in the body by the food 13. What warning is given to those eaten,. so Christ is formed within by the who attempt to alter God’s word in eating of the word of God, which is His any way? Rev. 22:18, 19. flesh and blood. He who feeds upon that word has Christ formed within, the hope of glory.”–Ellen G. White, Review. and Herald, Nov. 23, 1897. Questions for Meditation
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What relation does the word of God bear to the Holy Spirit? Eph. 1. What effect may our words have on 6:17. the health and well-being of others? 2. What is the best way of making sure that the latter rain does not pass us by? 3. When I misinterpret the plain mean- No•fE.H”The Word, of God—the truth- ing of, Scripture. in order to allow. for my js the channelthrough whiCh the Lord mai* sing, why Will I riot escape the’S’Oten. last feltsSpirit’and’ PieWee.”–Ther.:Act:i: plagues 7’ 9 Lesson 13, for June 27, 1959
God's Wonderful Fatherhood
MEMORY VERSE: “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him. For He knoweth our frCime; He remembereth that we are dust.” Ps. 103:13, 14. STUDY HELPS: “Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing” 1956 ed., pp. 103-106, (1943 ed., pp. 154-156); “Christ’s Object Lessons,” pages 139-149, 198-211; “Education,” pages 151-154, 295-297; “The Ministry of Healing,” pages 470- 472; “The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary,” on lesson texts; Lesson Help in “Review and Herald” of June 11. DAILY STUDY ASSIGNMENT AND RECORD
Check Here Check Here Sabbath afternoon: General survey. ❑ Wednesday: Questions 12-15. ❑ Sunday: Questions 1-3. ❑ Thursday: Read from Study Helps. ❑ Monday: Questions 4-7. ❑ Friday: Read further from Study Tuesday: Questions 8-11. 0 Helps; review entire lesson. ❑
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Lesson Outline I11. The Father’s Watchcare Over His Children Introduction 7. God cares for us. Matt. 6:8; 1 Peter 5:7. I. God’s Relation to Man 8. He knows every detail of our lives. 1. We are taught to call God “Father.” Ps. 139:3 ; Matt. 10:29-31; Heb. 4: Matt. 6:9. 13. 2. This makes Christians sons and 9. He will direct us if we are willing. daughters of God. 1 John 3:1, 2. ‘Ps. 48:14; Prov. 3:6. 3. Title of spiritual Father reserved for 10. He will help us conquer temptation. God and Christ. Isa. 9:6; Matt. 1 Cor. 10:13 ; 2 Peter 2:9. 23:9; 1 Cor. 8:5, 6; Eph. 4:6. 11. He provides for us. Ps. 34:10; 84:11; Matt. 6:8, 25-30; 7:11; Rom. 8:32.
- The Father’s Love for Man 12. He shares our difficulties. Ps. 68:5;
Isa. 43:2; 49:15; 58:11.
- Equal to His love for Christ. John IV. God and the Redeemed 17:23.
- He freely forgives those who repent. 13. We are to be perfect, like our Father. Isa. 55:7; Hosea 14:4; Luke 15: Matt. 5:48. 20-24. 14. Rewards in the kingdom. Matt. 25:
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He disciplines those whom He loves. 34; Rev. 2:7; 3:21. Heb. 12:6-11; 1 Peter 4:12, 13; Rev. 15. Redeemed to see the Father’s face. 3:19. Rev. 22:4.
THE LESSON Introduction His power; it is challenging to discover how infinite is His wisdom; it is uplifting No study of God would be complete with- to study His character; but no picture of out gaining an understanding of Him in the God carries with it quite the emotional ap- role of Father. It is inspiring to learn of peal and encouragement that does His 44Fatherhood. Because of this, “Christ’s most favorite theme was the paternal character and abundant love of God.”—Testimonies to Ministers, page 192. As in past ages, the world still is in great need of understanding God as Father: This concept will bring peace to the heart, com- fort in the hour of sorrow, and hope, to all who have wandered away from the Father’s house. God’s Relation to Man
- By what affectionate title did Jesus teach His followers to address God? Matt. 6:9. OUR ELDER BROTHER MAKES US • “” ACCEPTABLE TO THE FATHER. .2051,111 NOTE.—”In order to strengthen our con- fidence in God, Christ teaches us to address Him by a new name, a name entwined with NoTE.—”Whatever the heathen might do the dearest associations of the human heart. or think, Christians should know that there He gives us the privilege of calling the in- is only one God, and He alone has the right finite God our Father. This name, spoken to rule over them. There is not one God to Him and of Him, is a sign of our love and who rules over a portion of the human fam- trust toward Him, and a pledge of His re- ily and others who govern other sections of gard and relationship to us. Spoken when the world’s population. One God created all asking His favor or blessing, it is as music things, and by virtue of this act He has in His ears. That we might not,tthink it power and authority over everything on preiumption to call Him by this name, He the •earth.”—The Seventh-day Adventist has repeated it again and again. He desire’s Bible Commentary, vol. 6, pp. ‘720, 721. us to become familiar with the appellation.” —Christ’s Object Lessons (1941 ed.), pages The Father’s Love for Man 141, 142. 4. How great is God’s love for man-
- Since God is our “Father,” what kind? John 17:23. relationship do we sustain to Him? 1 John 3:1, 2. NorE.—”Only He who knew the height and depth of the love of God could make it manifest. Nothing less than the infinite NOTE.—”God regards us as His children. sacrifice made by Christ in behalf of fallen He has redeemed us out of the careless world man could express the Father’s love 10.lost and has chosen us to become members of the humanity.”-ZSteps to Christ (1956 • ed.), royal family, sons and daughters of the page 14. heavenly King. He invites us to trust in Him with a trust deeper and stronger than that What attitude will the Father of a child in his earthly father. Parents love take toward His children who forsake their children, but the love of Go’d is larger, their evil ways and desire to return broader, deeper, than human love can pos- sibly be. It is immeasurable.”—Christ’s home? Isa. 55:7; Hosea 14:4; Luke Object Lessons (1941 ed.), page 142. 15:20-24.
3. Why are we asked to reserve the title of Father, as Deity, to God and 'NOTE.—"In his restless youth the prodi- Christ alone? Isa. 9:6; Matt. 23:9; 1 gal looked upon his father as stern and Cor. 8:5, 6; Eph. 4:6. severe. How different his conception of him
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how! So those who are deceived by Satan NOTE.—”The infinite God, said Jesus, look upon God as hard and exacting. They makes it your privilege to approach Him by regard Him as watching to denounce and the name of Father. .. . God dwells in every condemn, as unwilling to receive the sinner abode; He hears every’ word that is spoken, so long as there is a legal excuse for not listens to every prayer that is offered, tastes helping him. His law they regard as a re- the sorrows and disappointments of every striction upon men’s happiness, a burden- soul, regards the treatment that is given some yoke from which they are glad to es- to father, mother, sister, friend, and neigh- cape. But he whose eyes have been opened bor. He cares for our necessities, and His by the love of Christ will behold God as love and mercy and grace are continually full of compassion. He does not appear as a flowing to satisfy our need.”—Thoughts tyrannical, relentless being, but as a father From the Mount of Blessing (1956 ed.), longing to embrace his repenting son.”— page 105. Christ’s Object Lessons (1941 ed.), page 204. 9. What part is the Father willing 6. What evidence of the Father’s to play in the life plans of His chil- ,love do His earthly children sometimes dren? Ps. 48:14; Prov. 3:6. misunderstand? What is God’s pur- pose in this discipline? Heb. 12:6-11; 1 Peter 4: 12, 13; Rev. 3:19. NoTE.—”But if you call God your Father, you acknowledge yourselves His children, to be guided by His wisdom and to be obedient in all things, knowing that His love is NOTE.—”Trials and obstacles are the changeless. You will accept His plan for Lord’s chosen methods of discipline and your life.”—Thoughts From the Mount of His appointed conditions of success. He who reads the hearts of men knows their Blessing (1956 ed.), page 105. characters better than they themselves know them. He sees that some have powers and 10. What provision has God made susceptibilities which, rightly directed, to help His children meet temptation might be used in the advancement of His successfully? 1 Cor. 10:13;.2 Peter 2:9. work. In His providence He brings these persons into different positions and varied circumstances that they may discover in their character the defects which have been 11. How may we be certain that our concealed from their own knowledge. He gives them opportunity to correct these de- Father will supply all our physical fects and to fit themselves for His service. and spiritual necessities? Ps. 34:10; Often He permits the fires of affliction to 84:11; Matt. 6:8, 25-30; 7:11; Rom. assail them that they may be purified.”— 8:32. The Ministry of Healing, page 471.
The Father’s Watchcare Over His Children 12. Why should the true Christian not lose heart even in the midst of
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Why may we with confidence discouraging situations? Ps. 68:5; Isa. cast our care upon God? Matt. 6:8; 43:2; 49:15; 58:11. 1 Peter 5:7.
God and the Redeemed, - How many of the details of our lives are known to our heavenly 13. What standard of character is Father? Ps. 139:3; Matt. 10:29-31; presented for God’s children to reach? Heb. 4:13. Matt. 5:48. [ 46] 14. What wonderful invitation will will at last ‘see His face; and His name Christ extend to the redeemed? What shall be in their foreheads.’ Revelation 22: privileges will be granted them? Matt. 4. And what is the happiness of heaven but 25:34; Rev. 2:7; 3:21. to see God? What greater joy could come to the sinner saved by the grace of Christ than to look upon the face of God and know Him as Father?”-The Ministry of Healing, page 421.
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What exalted privilege will bring supreme joy to the redeemed? Questions for Meditation I Rev. 22:4. 1. Will my children be attracted to their heavenly Father as a result of knowing me, or will they be repelled? 2. If God is truly my Father, I should NOTE.-“To those who receive Him He possess His wonderful traits of character. gives power to become the sons of God, that Do I? at last God may receive them as His, to 3. When I pass through the discipline of dwell with Him throughout eternity. If trial, do I feel that God still loves me? Am during this life they are loyal to God, they I tempted to feel resentful?
THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING June 27, 1959 This quarter the overflow of the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering goes to the Middle East Division, where most of the stories recorded in the Bible took place. Again we are privileged to help train workers for this needy field by helping to provide funds to build a central training school for Iraq. The other project this quarter is the strengthening of our medical and welfare work in the Republic of Sudan in Central Africa. The fields to benefit from the overflow for the next four quarters are: Third quarter-Far Eastern Division Fourth quarter-Southern Asia Division First quarter, 196o-Northern European Division Second quarter-Southern European Division LESSONS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF 1959 Sabbath school members who have failed to receive a senior Lesson Quarterly for the third quarter of 1959 will be helped by the following outline in studying the first lesson. The subject of the quarter's lessons is "Great Themes of the New Testament." The title of the first lesson is "The Eternal Fatherhood of. God." The Memory Verse is 1 John 3:1. The texts to be studied are: Ques. 1. Matt. 6:9. Ques. 8. John 1:12, 13; Rom. 8:14, 16. Ques. 2. Matt. 10:29-31; 18:4. Ques. 9. 2 Cor. 5:14. Ques. 3. John 4:8-10. Ques. 10. Heb. 12:5-12. Ques. 4. Matt. 11:27; John 14:6-9. Ques. 11. Col. 1:12-14. Ques. 5. Rom. 5:5; Gal. 4:6. Ques. 12. John 4:23; Heb. 4:16. Ques. 6. Rom. 8:32. Ques. 13. John 10:29; Rom. 8:35-39. Ques. 7. I John 3:1, 2. [47 1BUL
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